DT Chris Covington:
Scouting Report:
Rice profile page: http://www.riceowls.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/christian_covington_767789.html
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2015/profiles/christian-covington?id=2552602
CBS: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1892122/christian-covington
Articles:
2015 NFL Draft: Rang's Diamonds in the Rough (Christian Covington, Rice, 6-2, 289, 5.09: The second native Canadian on this list, Covington inexplicably didn't receive much attention from recruiters despite an impressive high school career that saw him register 83 tackles, including 15 sacks, as a senior and being the son of CFL Hall of Fame defensive end Grover Covington. He looked like a burgeoning superstar when Covington was the first sophomore defensive tackle at Rice since 1965 to earn first-team all-conference recognition, recording 59 tackles, including 14 tackles for loss and four sacks, in 2013. Unfortunately, a dislocated kneecap midway through the 2014 season limited Covington to just 20 tackles (including four tackles for loss, three sacks) and kept him out of the combine and out of the spotlight. Covington has a quick burst off the ball and is functionally strong enough to compete for early playing time despite his lack of ideal size. The question with Covington isn't talent or effort, only health. If his knee is OK'd by doctors, Covington could prove quite a Day Three steal.) (4-13-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25147084/nfl-draft-rangs-diamonds-in-the-rough
2015 Pro Day: Five Takeaways from this week's Pro Day workouts (At Rice, Canadian-born defensive tackle Christian Covington (6-foot-2, 289 pounds) turned heads with a solid workout. Covington's performance (and the medical evaluations) are critical to his stock as he was unable to perform at the Combine due to his recovery from a dislocated knee cap that prematurely ended the junior's 2014 season. A year earlier, Covington was the first sophomore defensive tackle at Rice since 1965 to earn First Team all-conference recognition when he recorded 59 tackles, including 14 tackles for loss and four sacks in 2013.) (3-27-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25125638/pro-day-five-takeaways-from-this-weeks-pro-day-workouts
2015 NFL Draft: This Week In Pro Days (Rice defensive tackle Christian Covington looked very good in his workout, showing great agility and explosion. Covington, at 289 pounds, recorded a 40 time of 4.89 and benched 225 pounds, 24 times.) (3-27-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-nfl-draft-this-week-in-pro-days-3.html
Defensive tackle prospect from Rice boosts draft stock at pro day (The Lions D-Line coach went to Rice's Pro Day. Really giving his 2015 NFL Draft stock a boost in the workouts was defensive tackle Christian Covington (6-foot-2 1/4, 289 pounds). Covington ran the 40-yard dash in 4.91 and 4.89 seconds. He had a 30 1/2-inch vertical jump and a 9-foot-3 broad jump. He did the 20-yard short shuttle in 4.43 seconds and the three-cone dirll in 7.43 seconds. Covington performed 24 reps of 225 pounds on the bench press. Covington was impressive in his positional workout, moving around well and showing good explosion.) (3-25-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000481495/article/christian-covington-of-rice-boosts-his-draft-stock-at-pro-day
2015 Pro Days: Underrated prospects boost stock at Duke, Rice (Most clubs were there to see defensive tackle Christian Covington, a native Canadian who looked like a burgeoning superstar when he was the first sophomore defensive tackle at Rice since 1965 to earn First Team all-conference recognition when he recorded 59 tackles, including 14 tackles for loss and four sacks in 2013. Unfortunately, a dislocated kneecap midway through the 2014 season limited Covington to just 20 tackles (including four tackles for loss, three sacks) and kept him out of the Combine. On Wednesday, however, reportedly in front of defensive line coaches from the Vikings and Lions, the 6-foot-2 (1/4), 289 pound Covington worked out well, clocking in at 4.90 in the 40-yard dash according to a scout on hand for the workout. He also registered a 30.5" vertical jump, a 9-3" broad jump and 24 reps on the bench press. I'm told he looked especially good during the positional drills, which isn't surprising as Covington was impressive on tape.) (3-25-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/blog/rob-rang/25123218/pro-days-underrated-prospects-boost-stock-at-duke-rice
UH’s Joey Mbu, Rice’s Christian Covington looking to take the next step in NFL (2-21-15): http://blog.chron.com/ultimatetexans/2015/02/uhs-joey-mbu-rices-christian-covington-looking-to-take-the-next-step-in-nfl/#30736101=0
Rice DT Covington looking for NFL chance (2-20-15): http://www.khou.com/story/sports/2015/02/20/rice-dt-covington-looking-for-nfl-chance/23768201/
Video - Covington talks at the Combine (2-20-15): http://www.khou.com/videos/sports/2015/02/20/23770895/
These smaller-school players have the most to prove at 2015 NFL combine (DT Christian Covington, Rice: Covington dislocated his left kneecap last November, and his medicals will be of supreme importance in Indianapolis. The 6'3", 295-poound Covington is a natural three-technique tackle with good speed and a variety of hand movements, though he needs to stay on point more consistently—he can be beaten off his post too often. A good off-season session of strength training and a clean bill of health would make him a very interesting prospect.) (2-16-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/02/16/nfl-combine-small-school-players-shane-carden-david-johnson-lynden-trail
Covington announces he will enter draft (1-9-15): http://collegefootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2015/01/09/rices-christian-covington-announces-he-will-enter-the-nfl-draft/
Covington has season ending knee surgery (11-11-14): http://blog.chron.com/sportsupdate/2014/11/rices-christian-covington-has-season-ending-knee-surgery/#26318101=0
2015 NFL Draft: Conference USA Preview (DT Christian Covington, Rice, RS Junior (6-2 | 295 | 5.09 | #1): One of the few players who can say he sacked Johnny Manziel in college, Christian Covington led Rice in tackles for loss (11.5) last season as a sophomore, earning First Team All-CUSA honors. The British Columbia native lined up mostly as a one-technique defensive tackle for the Owls last season and on tape he compared very favorably to Timmy Jernigan, who was a second round pick this past May. Covington is a quick, upfield penetrator who stays light on his feet with the fluid hips, natural flexibility and easy movement skills to attack gaps and disrupt the backfield. However he doesn't always show a consistent plan and has a bad habit of lowering his eye level, causing him to lose sight of the ball. Covington has a solid anchor, but has room to improve his upper body power and grip to better disengage blocks. If he continues to develop as a junior, it wouldn't be a surprise if Covington earns top-40 grades from NFL scouts.) (7-16-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24623566/nfl-draft-conference-usa-preview
DT Kaleb Eulls:
Scouting Reports:
Miss St Profile Page: http://www.hailstate.com/ViewArticle.dbml?ATCLID=204973089
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2015/profiles/kaleb-eulls?id=2552556
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=107164&draftyear=2015&genpos=dt
Articles:
The Wes Welker Watch List: 2015's top possible UDFAs (Kaleb Eulls, DT, Mississippi State: Eulls doesn’t possess elite skills in any one particular facet of his game, but he’s a proven commodity, having started all 52 games of his career in the rugged SEC West. He’s a nice fit for teams looking for an aggressive backup 4-3 defensive tackle or a five-technique defensive end in the 3-4. Much better as a run stuffer at the point of attack than he is as a pass rusher who can penetrate the backfield, Eulls plays with power and decent agility at 6'4", 295 pounds. His long arms (33 1/2 inches) and solid base allow him to effectively shed blockers, and his feet are nimble enough to hold up in run pursuit. Eulls did take part in the Senior Bowl, and he gets high marks from NFL teams for being a well-polished, pro-ready prospect who graduated with a degree in interdisciplinary studies last December and should be able to contribute early on in his career. His claim to fame off the field is impressive as well: As an 18-year-old high school senior in 2009, he earned national attention for the heroic act of separating a troubled 14-year-old girl from the handgun she was brandishing on a school bus ride in Mississippi. All 22 students and the bus driver came through the ordeal safely thanks to Eulls’s quick reaction.) (4-28-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/04/28/2015-nfl-draft-impact-undrafted-free-agents-wes-welker
Scouting the SEC: Mississippi State's top prospects in 2015 NFL Draft (Kaleb Eulls, DT, Redshirt Senior (6-3, 305, 5.14): NFLDraftScout.com Rank: #220 overall/#20 DT - Projection: 6th-7th round A high school quarterback, Eulls had offers from just about every SEC program and spent most of his Mississippi State career as a one-technique or nose tackle, developing his frame and adding 50 pounds since arriving in Starkville. He has a stout lower body to anchor and plug run lanes, but has limited range and doesn't offer much as a pass rusher. Eulls needs to improve his snap anticipation and pad level off the snap, often ending up where the blocker wants him to go when he stands up and loses leverage. He doesn't stand out on film and he lacks any traits that truly separate him, but Eulls has the physical and mental make-up to survive at the bottom of a roster.) (4-25-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25162876/scouting-the-sec-mississippi-states-top-prospects-in-2015-nfl-draft
2015 NFL Draft: No combine? No problem for these draftable prospects (Kaleb Eulls, Mississippi State (6-3, 305, 5.14): A high school quarterback, Eulls has a stout lower body to anchor and plug run lanes, but has limited range and doesn't offer much as a pass rusher. He doesn't stand out on film and he lacks any traits that truly separate him, but Eulls has the physical and mental makeup to survive at the bottom of a roster as a late rounder.) (4-16-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25151389/nfl-draft-no-combine-no-problem-for-these-draftable-prospects
Eulls accepts invite to Senior Bowl (Eulls finished the regular season with 33 tackles to go with three sacks. Only Preston Smith has more tackles among defensive lineman for Miss St. Eulls started every game of his four-year career at Mississippi State.) (12-1-14): http://sports.usatoday.com/2014/12/01/msus-kaleb-eulls-accepts-invite-to-senior-bowl/
Robinson, Eulls honored in SEC weekly awards (Eulls also claimed his first career weekly honor after he tallied a career-high two sacks. The Yazoo City native also tied a career high with 2.0 tackles for loss and tied a season best with five tackles. On the season, Eulls has recorded 22 tackles and 2.5 sacks in seven starts.)( (10-27-14): http://sports.usatoday.com/2014/10/27/josh-robinson-kaleb-eulls-honored-in-sec-weekly-awards/
Eulls tackles girl with gun on school bus (9-3-09): http://www.cnn.com/2009/US/09/03/mississippi.bus.hero/index.html
DT Joey Mbu:
Scouting Reports:
Houston profile page: http://www.uhcougars.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/joey_mbu_765958.html
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2015/profiles/joey-mbu?id=2552284
CBS: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1892110/joey-mbu
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=96335&draftyear=2015&genpos=DT
Articles:
Unsung draft prospects lead All-Underrated Team (Defensive Tackle: Joey Mbu, Houston: I'm also surprised that there isn't more talk about Mbu—he's a 6'3", 313-pound fireplug who will line up at the point of attack and move blockers out of the way. He's not an elite pass-rusher and his speed is questionable, but he plays with a lot of power.) (4-28-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/04/28/2015-NFL-draft-underrated-prospects-garrett-grayson-david-johnson
Draft Prospecting: The American Athletic Conference (AAC) (Joey Mbu, DT, Houston--if your team needs an immovable object in the middle of the defense, Mbu is one of the best options in this draft class. He’s 6’3”, 320-ish pounds and is built like a mechanized infantry vehicle. Mbu markedly improved as a senior thanks in part to losing around 25 pounds and working hard at using his hands more effectively. He performed well enough to earn a Senior Bowl berth, where he held his own despite having almost no pass rush ability. He only had one career unassisted sack. Mbu is a 0- or 1-technique specially designed to complement an attack dog tackle or 5-technique. He can control the A gap and has enough range and ability to stack and shed to plug the B gap too. Don’t ask him to stunt with the end, or drop in a zone blitz, or really do much of anything other than erase ball carriers between the tackles. At that one thing, he’s very useful for 30-40 snaps per game. That’s worth a 4th round pick for me, as he does have some upside. Current projection: 5th-6th round.) (4-25-15): http://football.realgm.com/analysis/2611/Draft-Prospecting-The-American-Athletic-Conference-AAC
The best draft backup plans once top prospects thin (Mbu checked in 26 pounds lighter than Shelton at the combine: 313 pounds to Shelton's 339. (At 6'4" and 338 pounds, UCLA's Ellis McCarthy was closest to Shelton's measurements.) Mbu still engulfs huge chunks of the screen on Houston's game tapes, possessing the lower-body size to deal with multiple blockers but also the quickness to penetrate into the backfield. He caught the eye of SI's Doug Farrar a couple months back - "Re-watching lesser-known draft prospects, and Houston DT Joey Mbu stands out. Great strength, good speed, shoots gaps, splits double teams." Mbu has a future as an NFL nose tackle, either in a 3-4 or 4-3 front.) (4-22-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/04/22/2015-nfl-draft-sleepers-leonard-williams-bobby-richardson-tre-mcbride
2015 NFL Draft: This Week In Pro Days (Fellow Cougar Joey Mbu falls in the third tier of the defensive tackles, and had a bad combine. However he was able to improve on all of his numbers and he really stands out of film as an impact player.) (3-27-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-nfl-draft-this-week-in-pro-days-3.html
2015 Pro Day: Five Takeaways from this week's Pro Day workouts (The 6-foot-3, 313 pound Mbu isn't a workout warrior -- timing near the 5.50 second 40-yard dash and lifting the bar "just" 21 times -- but his tape is good.) (3-27-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25125638/pro-day-five-takeaways-from-this-weeks-pro-day-workouts
Houston Pro Day Notes (Defensive tackle Joey Mbu timed 5.50 in the forty, 7.89 in the 3-cone and 4.84 in the short shuttle. He completed 21 reps on the bench. Mbu looked solid in drills and is drawing interest from the Washington Redskins, Green Bay Packers and Houston Texans, who will be working him out.) (3-26-15): http://walterfootball.com/proday.php
UH’s Joey Mbu, Rice’s Christian Covington looking to take the next step in NFL (2-21-15): http://blog.chron.com/ultimatetexans/2015/02/uhs-joey-mbu-rices-christian-covington-looking-to-take-the-next-step-in-nfl/#30736101=0
2015 NFL Combine: Day 3 News and Notes (Joey Mbu had the longest arms at 35 inches.) (2-20-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-nfl-combine-day-3-news-notes.html
Small school players look to raise profile at combine (Of all the smaller-school, (relatively) little-known prospects I've watched this year, Mbu is one of the most impressive, and you can start with his ability to shoot gaps and split double-teams. The 6'3", 315-pound Mbu could work in a lot of gaps—he fits best as a speed nose tackle or power three-tech, but some teams might see him as a 3–4 end in heavy packages, with an ability to move inside on passing downs.) (2-16-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/02/16/nfl-combine-small-school-players-shane-carden-david-johnson-lynden-trail
Zierlein: 9 draft prospects who should ace combine interviews (Joey Mbu, DT, Houston
From Zierlein's scouting report: Football and personal character are sky-high, according to regional scouts. Sources Tell Us: "The coaches at Houston can't stop talking about how good the kid is and what kind of leader he is." -- AFC defensive line coach.) (2-13-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000470315/article/zierlein-9-draft-prospects-who-should-ace-combine-interviews
Eight things we learned from Day 3 of Senior Bowl practices (For example, Iowa star Carl Davis played this week on the left and right side of a 4-3 defense at the three- and five-technique. Houston's Joey Mbu was among those that did the same and even played a little nose guard.)(1-22-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000462299/article/eighmayock-tj-clemmings-losing-buzz-as-potential-top10-pick
Optimum Scouting's 2015 Senior Bowl Scouting: Wednesday South Practice Notes (Houston’s Joey Mbu deserves a ton of credit for competing and giving plus effort during practice. Beaten badly on double teams and not understanding how to properly approach, attack and disengage from blocks, Mbu took to coaching and improved throughout the day. He was more active in 7-on-7 run and team settings than individual drill work, evidencing his need for development at the next level.) (1-21-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-senior-bowl-scouting-wednesday-south-practice-notes.html
Senior Bowl: Wednesday South Notes (Houston DT Joey Mbu. One of the things scouts look at is finding a defined role for a player as they project forward. It’s easy to see where Mbu is going to make his living in the NFL. He’s easily the best defensive tackle here at taking on double teams. Mbu manipulates the leverage and understands how to use his very strong lower body and violent hands to hit the weak points of the two blockers trying to engage him. That makes his an attractive 1-technique for a 4-3 defense. He’s not much of a pass rusher but does well enough to get free or with a bull rush to be a solid clean-up secondary rusher. The Raiders, Bears, Cowboys, Seahawks and Lions should be among the teams with interest in the third or fourth round.)(1-21-15): http://football.realgm.com/analysis/2591/Senior-Bowl-Wed-South-Notes
2015 Senior Bowl: South loaded on offensive, defensive lines (Houston's Joey Mbu also performed well. Heavier than Wright at 312 pounds and possessing longer arms (34.5 inches), Mbu was consistently able to stack and shed blockers at the point of attack to stuff running lanes. Mbu does not possess great quickness and therefore offers little as a pass rusher, but his length and strength could make him an intriguing candidate for 3-4 clubs looking for help at defensive end or perhaps even slide Mbu inside as a developmental nose guard.)(1-21-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/blog/rob-rang/24982677/senior-bowl-south-loaded-on-offensive-defensive-lines
2015 Senior Bowl Monday's South Practice Report (Kouandjio had some wins in the one-on-ones as well. In the run scrimmage, he had a very impressive play as he blasted Houston defensive tackle Joey Mbu out of his gap and rode him down the field.)(1-20-15):http://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2015practice.php
Key seniors to make impact in Armed Forces Bowl (Named one of this season’s captains, defensive tackle Mbu is finishing out his college career after being named to the American Athletic Conference’s First Team and selected to the roster of the Reese’s Senior Bowl. Mbu started all 12 regular season games and totaled 31 tackles, 2 and a half sacks and one interception. He also achieved his all-time career bests during the 2014 season, including eight tackles against UCF.)(1-1-15): http://thedailycougar.com/2015/01/01/key-seniors-impact-armed-forces-bowl/
ACC prospect ranking (Entering the 2013 campaign defensive tackle Joey Mbu was someone I had high hopes for yet he showed little improvement on the field last season. He comes with average size/speed numbers and really doesn’t make enough plays on the ball.) (7-24-14): http://www.draftinsider.net/blog/?p=9890
Mbu tackles leadership (9-8-13): http://thedailycougar.com/2013/09/05/mbu-tackles-leadership/
Defensive Ends (Dupree, Odighizuwa and Smith):
DE Alvin Dupree:
Scouting Reports:
Kentucky Profile Page: http://www.ukathletics.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/bud_dupree_766025.html
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2015/profiles/bud-dupree?id=2552289
CBS: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1877307/alvin-dupree
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=107013&draftyear=2015&genpos=DE
2015 NFL Draft Preview: DE Bud Dupree: http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/2015-nfl-draft-preview-de-bud-dupree/
Walterfootball: http://walterfootball.com/scoutingreport2015adupree.php
Bob Sturm's Profile: http://cowboysblog.dallasnews.com/2015/01/bob-sturms-2015-nfl-draft-profile-what-i-see-in-alvin-bud-dupree-deolb-kentucky.html/
Articles:
Players being overrated in the lead-up to the draft (Bud Dupree, DE/OLB, Kentucky: Again, I get it. Dupree has the size (6'4", 269 pounds) to help set the edge and the quickness (4.56 40) to rush the passer or even play in space. He's an athlete, in every sense of the word, and could be molded into an excellent NFL player by the right coaching staff. But. The flaws in his game as a college player were evident, starting with average awareness and continuing to include a pretty basic pass-rushing repertoire. There are some who believe Dupree is en route to a top-10 pick, be it by Atlanta or the Jets or a team moving around via trade. His current skill set would be a far better value fit another dozen-plus picks later.) (4-29-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/04/29/2015-nfl-draft-overrated-prospects-breshad-perriman-arik-armstead
Which prospects are undervalued/overvalued? (Overvalued - 1. Bud Dupree, OLB, Kentucky: I love Dupree's potential, but he wasn't a consistent player during his college career. He is going to get selected very high in this draft -- in fact, I'll be shocked if he doesn't go in the top 10. He could eventually live up to the high draft pedigree, but it's far from a sure thing. This is a prospect who needs time to develop.) (4-29-15): http://www.nfl.com/draft/story/0ap3000000488658/article/nfl-draft-tyler-lockett-undervalued-bud-dupree-overvalued
Ray, Gregory troubles not reason for Dupree rise, Kentucky star says (4-29-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000488772/article/bud-dupree-says-hes-climbing-draft-boards-on-own-merit
NFL position rankings: Edge rushers a special group, but with concerns (Could rise in Draft - Dupree: Since the scouting combine, scouts have been willing to overlook Dupree’s rawness as a football player and lack of good instincts, citing his exceptional athleticism and the fact that he played out of position at Kentucky out of need. He destroyed his combine workouts and interviews, endearing himself to many teams picking high in the draft, and won’t last long. In fact, two personnel directors said they would not be stunned if Dupree was either the first or second true edge rusher off the board on draft day. That’s what jaw-dropping athleticism will do for a player’s stock.) (4-27-15): http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/nfl-position-rankings--edge-rushers-a-special-group--but-with-concerns-164615381.html
Which prospects will be rookie Pro Bowlers? (Bud Dupree, OLB, Kentucky: I'm on record as someone who believes Dupree will be a better pro than college player, and it might not take him long to make waves in the NFL. He's not the top-rated edge rusher in this draft, but maybe that plays to his advantage in that he goes a little later in the draft than the other highly touted guys and lands with a team that's in better position to succeed in 2015. I have him going to the New Orleans Saints at No. 13 in my latest mock draft. It would be a lot of fun to see defensive coordinator Rob Ryan turn Dupree loose.) (4-24-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000488057/article/nfl-draft-5-prospects-who-could-become-rookie-pro-bowlers
Overrated Prospects in the NFL Draft (Bud Dupree – OLB/DE – Kentucky: When I watched the first three tapes, my first thought was “why the hype?”. I thought he was a good solid football player but I didn’t see anything special. I didn’t see a player that was worth a first round grade. After the Combine, I went back and watched more tape, because his Combine workout was so outstanding. Dupree ran a 4.57 and 4.73 in his two 40 attempts. His play speed is more indicative of the 4.73 than the 4.57! The only other things he did at the Combine were the jumps, and they were elite. His vertical was 42” and is standing long jump was 11’6′, an unheard of leap at any position. Because Dupree didn’t run the agility drills at the Combine, he had to run them at his pro day. The results were interesting. His 20 yard shuttle time was 4.47, and his 3-cone was 7.48. Both of those times would rank in the lower half of the linebacker group at Indy and translate more to the 4.73 40 time. After watching late tape, I saw nothing that changed my opinion. He plays the run well, shows some strength at the point of attack, and can set the edge. He is not explosive as a pass rusher, and his sack production is good, not great (7.5 sacks). He can drop into coverage and play zone but struggles when asked to play man. His overall production was not as good as an elite player would have. Part of the problem is he lacks top instincts. He is more a “see and react” type than an instinctively reacting player. While I feel he will be a solid NFL player, I don’t ever see him becoming a pro bowler. He will get drafted in the first because of his great Combine numbers, but he looks more like a second rounder to me.) (4-21-15): http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/overrated-prospects-in-the-nfl-draft/
Lions draft preview: Edge rusher not top priority (4. Bud Dupree, Kentucky: The 6-foot-4, 269-pound Dupree is another freak athlete, posting a 42-inch vertical and 138-inch broad jump at the combine, and a 4.47-second 40-yard dash at his pro day. He has the ability to set the edge against the run and uses power as a rusher.) (4-21-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/04/21/lions-draft-preview-edge-rusher-not-likely-target/26149355/
2015 NFL Draft positional overviews: Edge rushers (Better pro than college player: Kentucky's Alvin "Bud" Dupree. Dupree had 21 sacks the past three seasons at Kentucky, but most of those came because of his sheer athleticism. The thought is that once NFL coaches get their hands on Dupree (6-4, 269), they can mold him into a high-caliber player who has the ability to wreak havoc off the edge. Dupree's athleticism is eye-opening: He ran a 4.56 40 at the combine, with a 42-inch vertical jump and a broad jump of 11 feet, 6 inches. Remember, this from a guy who weighs 269 pounds. If he can covert that athleticism into production, he's a future All-Pro.) (4-20-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000486540/article/2015-nfl-draft-the-skinny-on-this-years-edge-rushers
Kentucky’s Dupree balances NFL, college goals (4-19-15): http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2015/04/19/alvin-dupree-kentucky-college-degree-first-round-goal/26044693/
Rams bring yet another top-shelf pass rusher Dupree for pre-draft visit (4-18-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000486332/article/st-louis-rams-host-bud-dupree-for-visit
Greg Cosell's draft preview: Dante Fowler should be Titans' pick at No. 2 (Alvin "Bud" Dupree, Kentucky: I really like Dupree. The more I watched him, the more I really liked his traits as a player and a pass rusher. Dupree just moves differently than most guys. He's a really good athlete. Athletically a good comparison might be Jamie Collins of the New England Patriots, and I don't take that lightly because I think Collins is an exceptional athlete. Dupree is a little different than most of the players on this list because he wasn't a designated pass rusher for Kentucky. He was utilized often in coverage, even in sub packages. He was asked to fill multiple roles with a lot of different responsibilities in Kentucky's defense. Yet, if you line up Dupree and tell him to rush the quarterback, I sense he could turn into a good NFL pass rusher. Dupree must play stronger to make an immediate impact in the NFL, as he did not play to his size and explosiveness consistently. And at this point no real moves as a pass rusher. But he showed the natural athletic movement and off-the-ball burst to develop into a quality pass rusher in the NFL, if a team wants to use him in that way.) (4-18-15): http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/greg-cosell-s-draft-preview--dante-fowler-should-be-titans--pick-at-no--2-201817261.html
Scouting the SEC: Kentucky's Top Prospects in 2015 NFL Draft (Alvin "Bud" Dupree, DE/OLB, Redshirt Senior (6-4, 269, 4.56) NFLDraftScout.com Rank: #13 overall/#2 DE: Projection: First Round. For all of the attention heaped upon edge rushers Dante Fowler, Jr. (Florida), Vic Beasley(Clemson), Randy Gregory (Nebraska) andShane Ray (Missouri) among others, Dupree might offer the most intriguing combination of size and explosiveness and therefore, upside. Dupree split time as a 4-3 defensive end and stand-up rusher for the Wildcats and could play a similarly versatile role in the NFL. He has terrific quickness and agility, which help him elude pass-blockers but could stand to gain more functional strength and doesn't possess ideal instincts for coverage responsibilities. Considered a hard worker with still some untapped potential to work with, Dupree is a first-round cinch.) (4-18-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25153955/scouting-the-sec-kentuckys-top-prospects-in-2015-nfl-draft
O'HARA'S DRAFT PREVIEW: Defensive line (DE Alvin “Bud” Dupree, Kentucky: A tight end and linebacker in high school, he also played basketball. A four-year player at Kentucky, he was a linebacker the first two years and a defensive end the last two, recording 22 tackles for loss, with 14.5 of them sacks. Wherever he winds up – outside linebacker or defensive end – his specialty is rushing the passer off the edge.) (4-15-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara/article-1/OHARAS-DRAFT-PREVIEW-Defensive-line/a61fece9-bf1e-427f-b1ec-a626f4172aef
Nine biggest athletic freaks in 2015 NFL Draft (Bud Dupree, LB, Kentucky: Specs: 6-4, 269 pounds, 32 5/8-inch arms, 9 3/4-inch hands. Draft status: The best pro prospect to come from UK since Randall Cobb, if not before, Dupree is one of six listed here who should be gone in the first round. Like Armstead, Dupree was asked to perform multiple roles for the Wildcats and would fit well with a 3-4 defense. He did what? Dupree ran a 4.56 at the NFL Scouting Combine with a 42-inch vertical jump and an 11-foot-6 broad jump, all stunning numbers for someone his size. Clemson's Vic Beasley grabbed the combine headlines because his 4.53 40 was the fastest among linebackers, but at almost 25 pounds heavier, Dupree's 4.56 was more impressive.) (4-14-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000483902/article/2015-nfl-draft-byron-jones-leads-nine-most-athletic-prospects
Mike Mayock's five fastest-rising prospects in 2015 NFL Draft (Another pass rusher who is shooting up boards, according to Mayock, is Bud Dupree from Kentucky. "The tape is inconsistent, but as coaches get involved, they want to work with this piece of clay," Mayock said. "He's got everything you want in a Pro Bowl edge rusher except consistency." Dupree turned some heads at the NFL Scouting Combine with those raw tools that Mayock mentioned, and it's not hard to see a scenario where he goes in the top 15.) (4-10-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000484862/article/mayock-nelson-agholor-leads-2015-nfl-drafts-fastest-risers
Self-starters: Prospects who've boosted their stock (Bud Dupree, OLB/DE, Kentucky: Dupree stood out in Indy by posting a 4.56 40 at 6-foot-4 and 269 pounds, but really, his work through the offseason gauntlet has been outstanding end-to-end. And that includes the interviews, during which clubs found this freak athlete to be a great kid. Because of his athleticism, makeup and on-field motor, teams feel like they can work with him, even if he's a little raw. So he's now in play in the top 10.) (4-10-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000484739/article/bud-dupree-aj-cann-among-prospects-who-truly-helped-selves
Could Falcons consider Kentucky edge rusher Dupree at No. 8? (4-9-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000484588/article/kentuckys-bud-dupree-could-be-in-play-for-atlanta-at-no-8
Nos. 39-35: A closer look at two FSU standouts (36. Alvin "Bud" Dupree, DE/OLB, Kentucky: Bio: Most people weren't entirely aware of Dupree's freakish athleticism until he showed up at the scouting combine and blew everyone away with a 4.56 40-yard dash at 6'4" and 269 pounds. But this is no workout wonder—Dupree leaves the Wildcats as the SEC's active leader in career sacks with 23.5 over four seasons. He also amassed 37 tackles for loss, 247 total tackles, four forced fumbles and an interception return for a touchdown. NFL teams looking for full-field linebackers will have Dupree high on their boards, as long as they believe that his relative lack of physicality is a matter of better technique.Strengths: Versatile player who provides value everywhere from outside linebacker to pass-rushing linebacker to situational end with his hand on the ground. As a stand-up rusher, has tremendous first-step quickness and closes to the pocket in a hurry. Bends the edge in space quickly enough for blockers to struggle in adjustment. Can mirror tight ends and slot receivers in coverage and could be used very creatively in that regard in defenses with a high percentage of nickel and dime schemes. Moves into short and intermediate coverage adeptly, keeping his eyes front for running backs and mobile quarterbacks. Ideal build for a multi-gap pass-rusher—long arms and a muscular frame. Weaknesses: Doesn't have the raw strength to play to his size—comes off the ball too high too often and can easily be taken out to either side by blockers. Occasionally will get poleaxed by outside blockers, including tight ends. Needs room off the edge to be consistently disruptive, because he displays limited hand movement and engages more than he sheds blockers. Go-to pass rush move at this point is pushing off the blocker to either side—must be more versatile with his technique. Overpursuit has him tacking bad angles more often than you'd like—needs to be more aware of his surroundings. Conclusion: Dupree's sack numbers and combine speed will have some projection him as a endbacker at the NFL level, but he's going to find that a struggle until he either plays to his combine weight or develops his array of hand moves. The hope should be that Dupree's NFL team will exploit his abiity to attack and cover in space, because that's what makes him pop off the tape—and could be his road to success at the next level. Ayers didn't have Dupree's sack totals at UCLA, but he came into the NFL as a versatile player who amassed six interceptions for the Bruins in three seasons. Dupree could be that kind of player... or he could be a tweener waiting to happen. Pro Comparison: Akeem Ayers, Rams (Round 2, 2009).) (4-6-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/04/06/2015-nfl-draft-ranking-si-64-paul-dawson-ereck-flowers-eddie-goldman?page=2&devicetype=default
Kentucky pass rusher Dupree meets with two teams picking in top 15 (4-3-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000483411/article/kentuckys-bud-dupree-meets-with-browns-falcons
2015 NFL Draft: Lance Zierlein's top 10 edge-rushing prospects (5. Bud Dupree, Kentucky: Zierlein's bottom line: Dupree is an explosive, powerful athlete with a background in basketball. While he's been productive at Kentucky, his tape doesn't always do his potential justice. He must continue to improve as a pass rusher, but his traits are undeniable. Difference between being good and great might be his coordinator.) (3-24-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000480861/article/2015-nfl-draft-lance-zierleins-top-10-edge-rushers
Davis: 5 draft prospects who will be better pros than college players (Bud Dupree, OLB, Kentucky: Dupree has had some solid numbers, recording 7.5 sacks last season and 23.5 during his Wildcats career. He has all the athletic tools you look for, too. Yet, the big concern that comes up with Dupree -- whether watching tape or talking to evaluators -- is a lack of consistency. Is he more than just a flash player? He's had to wear different hats in different systems at Kentucky, so it's possible that consistency of scheme and assignment will help him as a pro. If he lands in the right defense and becomes more consistent, look out.) (3-24-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000481180/article/five-draft-prospects-who-will-be-better-pros-than-college-players
NFL notables check out two Kentucky defensive standouts (Outside linebacker Alvin "Bud" Dupree (6-foot-4 1/8, 257 pounds) ran the 20-yard short shuttle in 4.47 seconds and the three-cone drill in 7.49 seconds. He stood on his other numbers from the NFL Scouting Combine, which were outstanding. Dupree posted the top broad jump among linebackers, and was a top performer among linebackers in the 40-yard dash and vertical jump. Dupree's broad jump was spectacular, going 11 feet, 6 inches. Connecticut defensive back Byron Jones broke the combine and world broad-jump marks with a jump of 12 feet, 3 inches. Given Dupree's size, his broad jump might have been even more impressive than Jones'.) (3-13-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000478992/article/nfl-notables-check-out-two-kentucky-defensive-standouts
Tony Pauline's Pro Day Notes (I'm told Alvin Dupree looked tremendous in position drills yesterday, which should come as no surprise to anyone. Coupled with his incredible testing at the combine, as well as the pass-rush skills he displayed the past two seasons, I struggle to see how he gets out of the top 15. Dupree had dinner with the Pittsburgh Steelers the night before the pro day (general manager and head coach amongst those in attendance) and also met with the Indianapolis Colts. Yesterday, Dupree met with the Philadelphia Eagles, San Francisco 49ers, lunched with the New Orleans Saints and then met with the New York Jets.) (3-13-15): http://walterfootball.com/proday.php
Pro Day: Dupree glad he stayed at UK to train (3-12-15): http://www.courier-journal.com/story/sports/college/kentucky/2015/03/12/alvin-bud-dupree-works-nfl-draft-scouts-kentucky-pro-day/70227584/
2015 NFL Draft: Athletic class of defensive linemen (3/15. Alvin Dupree, Kentucky, 6-4, 269, 4.56, 1: This Bud's for you: Any team looking for an athletic, versatile, productive, consistent defender, Dupree is all that and more. A respected leader on and off the field who answers to the simple nickname Bud, Dupree leaves Kentucky after mauling opponents with 247 tackles, four forced fumbles, five passes defensed and a total of 23.5 sacks, second best in school history. A former prep tight end and basketball star, Dupree has quick feet and hands and is best eluding, rather than confronting, blockers. Dupree added 15 pounds of muscle in college and can use even more to help improve his ability to disengage. Measuring up: Despite injury issues (groin, pectoral), Dupree's combine results were incredible, especially a standing broad jump of 11-feet, 6 inches, ironically only No. 3 overall this year, behind a world record (Byron Jones, 12-3) and a leap (Jamie Collins, 11-7) that tied the previous Indy record. Dupree's vertical jump was 42 inches and his 40-yard time 4.56 seconds. Notable quote: "I wear uniform No. 2 because I'm trying to be No. 1 but I am working like I am No. 2." Dupree explaining his college jersey number, which he will need to change in the NFL because single digits are not an eligible choice at DE or OLB. Frankly: Here is a solid citizen who was a sensational athlete at every level and there is no reason to believe he won't be a star in the NFL.) (3-10-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25101900/nfl-draft-athletic-class-of-defensive-linemen
The Good, The Bad And The Ugly Scouting Combine Performances (Vertical Jump - Solid effort: Kentucky defensive end/outside linebacker Bud Dupree jumped a whopping 42 inches — an absurdly good leap for a guy who weighed in at 269 pounds. No one else who’s nearly that big jumped nearly that high.) (2-24-15): http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2015/02/23/the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly-scouting-combine-performances/
All-combine team: Players who excelled in Indianapolis (Dupree made the team.) (2-24-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/02/24/nfl-all-combine-team-2015-jameis-winston-kevin-white-dante-fowler
2015 NFL Combine Stock Report - Linebackers (Alvin Dupree was expected to blow up the Combine, and while a couple of other edge rushers like Vic Beasley were more impressive, he did not disappoint. Dupree weighed in at 6-4, 269, but still managed to run an explosive 40, clocking in at 4.56 with a 1.60 10-yard split. He also posted a 42-inch vertical and a 10-6 broad jump. Dupree could break into the top 10, but he could also fall just because there are so many blue-chip pass-rushers in this class.) (2-24-15): http://walterfootball.com/combine2015stockLB.php
Five players who boosted their stock at the NFL combine (Kentucky’s Alvin “Bud” Dupree sat out of positional drills with a tweaked groin, but that didn’t stop him from posting a 4.56 forty and 42-inch vertical jump. In today’s NFL, with rules favoring the passing game, teams are always looking for pass rushers are at a premuim, so questions about Dupree’s strength and technique may be overlooked. But a 6-foot-4, 269-pound end posting those measurements will not be.) (2-23-15): http://sportswire.usatoday.com/2015/02/23/the-five-players-who-helped-their-stock-most-at-the-nfl-combine-draft-kevin-white-bud-dupree-vic-beasley-chris-conley/
Day 3 risers and sliders: Beasley runs into big time (Bud Dupree, DE/OLB, Kentucky: At the 2013 combine, Southern Miss linebacker Jamie Collins really blew it up with a 4.59 40-yard dash and a 1.58 10-yard split at 6'4" and 250 pounds. He added a 41 1/2-inch vertical leap and an 11'7" broad jump. That brought him to the Patriots in the second round, and when Jerod Mayo got hurt halfway through the 2014 season, Collins stepped into the role of athletic lead linebacker without missing a beat, playing at an All-Pro level all the way though to New England's Super Bowl victory. There's a subset of draft analysts looking for the next Jamie Collins, and they just may have found him in Kansas' Bud Dupree. On Sunday, Dupree ran a 4.57 40 on his first try with a 1.60 split, a 42-inch vertical and an 11'7" broad jump. Moreover, Dupree's game tape tells an impressive story: This is no workout wonder. Dupree ran a 4.73 40 with a 1.71 10-yard split on his second try, and he couldn't do the positional drills due to an injury, but you can bet that he's in for a closer look from a lot of teams. Nobody wants to be the guy who missed on the next great unheralded linebacker.) (2-22-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/02/22/combine-day-3-risers-and-sliders-vic-beasley-runs-big-time
Sorting the Sunday Pile: NFL scouting combine winners, losers (Bud Dupree: The Kentucky linebacker predicted a long time ago he would do well at the combine. And he was spot on. The 6-4, 269-pound outside linebacker ran a 4.56 40 and posted a 42-inch vertical jump plus a 138-inch broad jump. There are some projection concerns with him and he's far from a finished project, but he might be creeping pretty high in terms of draft-day slotting based on blowing up Indy with his freakish athleticism.) (2-22-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/eye-on-football/25078256/sorting-the-sunday-pile-nfl-scouting-combine-winners-losers
Sunday's best performances from the NFL Scouting Combine (Kentucky's Bud Dupree recorded an 11-foot-6 broad jump, just an inch shy of Georgia wide receiver Chris Conley's 11-7 effort Saturday, which tied a combine record. Not bad for a guy who weighs 269 pounds. His nearest competition among the linebackers was Texas' Jordan Hicks, a distant second at 10-4. Dupree has been calling his combine shot since last summer, and delivered in emphatic fashion on Sunday.) (2-22-25): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000473211/article/sundays-best-performances-from-the-nfl-scouting-combine
Buzzworthy and buzzkill LBs and D-Lineman (Dupree is buzzworthy. Alvin "Bud" Dupree, edge rusher, Kentucky: The "Workout Warrior" Award should be placed in Dupree's hands after his eye-popping showing on Sunday. Despite having a groin injury that forced him to sit out positional drills, he ran a 4.56 40 and popped a pair of impressive jumps (42-inch vertical, 138-inch broad) that showcased his explosive athletic ability. This will boost Dupree's stock as an edge-rushing threat.)(2-22-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000473451/article/vic-beasley-puts-on-combine-show-shaq-thompson-disappoints
Sunday at the NFL Combine (All available stopwatches were pointed towards defensive lineman and linebackers in Indianapolis on Sunday. One of the day’s most compelling performances came from a player making a transition from one of those positions to the other. Kentucky’s Bud Dupree, who we expected to dominate in Indy, did just that, running a 4.56 official 40-yard dash, the second-best amongst 2015 linebackers and a number besting Jadeveon Clowney’s showing a year ago (4.59). Dupree also posted an unofficial 1.60-second 10-yard split and an incredible broad jump (11 feet, 5 inches) and vertical (42 inches). A breathless Mike Mayock said on Sunday’s telecast that Dupree “shows an incredible lower-body explosion.” The 6-foot-4, 269-pound Dupree, a hybrid DE/OLB at Kentucky, didn’t participate in position drills because of a groin injury. Though Dupree’s tests were ridiculously impressive, they, as all others, must be kept in context. Mayock said Dupree was "not consistent enough" at Kentucky, colleague Charles Davis said, “I don’t find him as much as I’m looking for” when watching Dupree’s game film, and fellow analyst Daniel Jeremiah said Dupree “is not very refined” and “needs a runway” as a pass rusher. Dupree could go in the second half of Round 1.) (2-22-15): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/52351/351/sunday-at-the-nfl-combine
2015 NFL combine: day 5 news and notes (Kentucky’s Bud Dupree destroy the athletic portion of the combine, posing a 42 inch vertical with 11’6 broad jump at 269 pounds. His broad jump is the third best by any player since 2006. Oh, and his 40 yard dash time was 4.57 seconds with a 1.60 split. If anybody improved their stock as much as Beasley it was Dupree. However, he did not participate in any off the on field drills.) (2-22-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-nfl-combine-day-5-news-notes.html
Video - Bud Dupree impresses with his 40-yard dash (2-22-15): http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-combine/0ap3000000473346/Bud-Dupree-impresses-with-his-40-yard-dash
Kentucky's Bud Dupree runs 4.56 40-yard dash at combine (It was the 2nd best among LBs) (2-22-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000473345/article/kentuckys-bud-dupree-runs-456-40yard-dash-at-combine
2015 NFL Combine- Saturday (Expect a big workout from Alvin Dupree of Kentucky on Sunday. His forty time could be faster than Jadeveon Clowney’s from a year ago (4.59) and the rest of his marks should be off the chart. Many were surprised Dupree was listed at linebacker for the combine considering many of the undersized college ends are working out with the defensive linemen. It presents a real opportunity for Dupree who showed himself to be a dominant pass rushing end in college and now has the opportunity to prove he can also play in space.) (2-21-15): http://www.draftinsider.net/blog/?p=10459
2015 NFL Combine Weigh-in Analysis - Linebackers (Kentucky's Bud Dupree (6-4, 269) played defensive end and outside linebacker for the Wildcats. At 6-foot-4, 269 pounds, Dupree is on the verge of being more of a 4-3 base defensive end. Dupree is a size/speed specimen who should impress at the Combine.) (2-21-15): http://walterfootball.com/combine2015weighinLB.php
2015 NFL Combine: Day 3 News And Notes (Kentucky’s Bud Dupree measured in at 6’4 and 269 pounds, showing he has the size to play in a 3-4 or 4-3.) (2-20-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-nfl-combine-day-3-news-notes.html
Must-see prospects at the combine (Bud Dupree looks like something special. Kentucky defensive end Bud Dupree is the best pure athlete to come out of the Wildcats' program since Randall Cobb, if not beyond. Chatter about Dupree's workout prowess around the UK football facility has been loud for a couple of years now. Expect the 265-pounder's combine numbers to read more like those of a linebacker than an end -- Dupree is as fast, agile and explosive as many of the top prospects who will weigh in at 30 or more pounds lighter. Kentucky coach Mark Stoops regards Dupree as highly as any defensive end he's ever coached -- and Stoops has made stops at places like FSU and Miami.) (2-18-15): http://www.nfl.com/combine/story/0ap3000000471066/article/kevin-white-ali-marpet-among-mustsee-prospects-at-nfl-scouting-combine
Combine players to watch: Defense (OLB Alvin "Bud" Dupree, Kentucky: Dupree (6-foot-4, 262 pounds) was listed as an end at Kentucky, played a hybrid end/linebacker spot and likely will be an outside linebacker in the NFL; he will go through the linebacker drills at the combine. He should wow onlookers -- especially given his size -- during the combine tests; his vertical jump has been measured at 40 inches and his broad jump at 10-foot-7. There's also this: Kentucky uses the "Catapult" monitoring system and Dupree was clocked at 20.5 mph in a game in 2013. Yes, he still is learning the nuances of the game, but "wow" numbers in the combine tests can cause folks to forget all about weaknesses.) (2-17-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000470848/article/2015-nfl-scouting-combine-players-to-watch-defense
Q: These players will be stars of NFL combine (Alvin “Bud” Dupree, DE/OLB, Kentucky: Dupree might not be in the first tier of edge rushers in this draft, but he shouldn’t be far behind. A Kentucky coach claimed the Wildcats standout had recorded a 40.5-inch vertical leap, and Dupree himself said he runs a 40-yard dash at (or under) 4.5 seconds. Those numbers might be difficult to duplicate at the combine, as they’d be better than the marks of Jadeveon Clowney last year. But expect Dupree to turn heads, even if he falls short of those marks.) (2-16-15): http://q.usatoday.com/2015/02/16/nfl-scouting-combine-top-players/
Sources Tell Us: What we're hearing about top draft prospects (The scoop: "He's a little slow to diagnose, which causes him to get a late start on plays. I would ask him to drop into space in zone dog looks and that's about it. To me, he's a pure see 'em, get 'em 3-4 rush end." -- NFC East regional scout on Kentucky LB Bud Dupree. The skinny: Dupree's traits are undeniable. At 6-foot-4, 264 pounds, he's a freakish athlete with a chiseled frame and has the power to rag-doll tight ends at will. Some insiders, however, such as this NFC East scout, believe his instincts are below-average, leading him to play with some hesitation. He's a raw talent, but Dupree is learning and has huge growth potential as a player. The difference between him being good and great might be his coordinator in the pros.) (2-12-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000470086/article/sources-tell-us-what-were-hearing-about-top-draft-prospects
2015 NFL Combine: Prospects with the most to gain or lose (DE/OLB Bud Dupree, Kentucky: Similar to Beasley, Dupree started at tight end before moving to defense, using his athleticism to launch off the line of scrimmage to penetrate the backfield. And similar to Beasley, he should turn heads in every drill for a 265-pounder.) (2-12-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25067278/nfl-combine-prospects-with-the-most-to-gain-or-lose
Most fascinating pro comps for prospects in 2015 NFL Draft (Alvin "Bud" Dupree, OLB, Kentucky: The NFL comp: Jamie Collins. The skinny: Collins tested off the charts at the NFL Scouting Combine in 2013, and Dupree is going to do the same this year. He's going to jump high, run fast and have the same kind of explosive numbers that Collins did. Both have freakish closing burst and didn't totally play to their talent in college. Collins unlocked it in the pros. We'll see if Dupree can do the same.) (2-4-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000468159/article/most-fascinating-pro-comps-for-prospects-in-2015-nfl-draft
Marcus Mariota among most freakish athletes in 2015 NFL Draft (Alvin "Bud" Dupree, OLB, Kentucky: Particulars: 6-4, 264. Zierlein's take: Freakish athlete with chiseled frame. Outstanding power with ability to rag-doll tight ends at will. Should be an above-average edge-setter. Good transition from playing run to rushing quarterback in play-action. Explosive closing burst. Willing thumper when he has a shot on running back. Can drop into space and play zone. Raw but learning, with huge growth potential as a player.) (2-3-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000465906/article/marcus-mariota-among-most-freakish-athletes-in-2015-nfl-draft
Cavanaugh’s NFL Draft Prospect Breakdown: Alvin “Bud” Dupree (2-3-15): http://dfw.cbslocal.com/2015/02/03/cavanaughs-nfl-draft-prospect-breakdown-alvin-bud-dupree/
Sources Tell Us: What we're hearing about top NFL prospects (The scoop: "I wasn't all that high on him when I watched him the first time, but he's really starting to grow on me. He has a chance to be a really high pick." -- NFC executive on Kentucky DE Alvin "Bud" Dupree. The skinny: Dupree and Clemson's Vic Beasley are considered the top two senior pass rushers. Dupree had contemplated entering the draft last season but honored a commitment to coach Mark Stoops and Kentucky by returning. The decision certainly didn't hurt him. He's a freakish athlete who should only help himself at the Senior Bowl and combine over the next few months. And if he does, he has a chance of landing in the top half of the first round.) (12-10-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000441953/article/sources-tell-us-what-were-hearing-about-top-nfl-prospects
Kentucky defensive end Bud Dupree has NFL scouts shaking their heads (It’s not because of the 6-4, 264-pound senior’s team-highs of 5.5 sacks and 8.5 tackles for loss this season. The scouts are more intrigued by his potential that many believe is hardly being utilized in the Wildcats’ defensive scheme.) (11-12-14): http://www.si.com/college-football/2014/11/12/how-good-alabama-mississippi-state-inside-read?page=2&devicetype=default
Alvin Dupree has played his way into a possible first-round draft pick (11-5-14): http://www.kentucky.com/2014/11/05/3521960/uk-football-alvin-dupree-has-played.html
UK's Bud Dupree now projected first-round pick (10-30-14): http://www.courier-journal.com/story/sports/college/kentucky/uk-beat/2014/10/30/uks-bud-dupree-now-projected-first-round-pick/18183389/
2015 NFL Draft Week 9 stock report: Huge day for Jeremy Langford (LB Bud Dupree, Kentucky: Kentucky is a program on the rise, but it didn't have enough to upset Mississippi State on Saturday. However, it was a good showcase game for Dupree, who showed why scouts are leaving Lexington with high grades on the Wildcats' pass rusher. He led all defenders with 10 tackles Saturday, adding 1.5 tackles for loss, a sack and two quarterback hurries. Dupree is a wild-card in Mark Stoops' defense, lining up with his hand on the ground as a defensive end, two-point stance as an edge rusher and then standing up off the line of scrimmage at the linebacker level. When dropping in coverage, he looked natural on his feet with fluid hips and footwork to easily redirect his momentum in space and adjust to coverages. But Dupree is at his best rushing the passer when he can show off his awesome first-step quickness and edge flexibility, collecting himself on the move and closing in a flash. He still needs to improve in several areas, but the natural athleticism for his size is why he currently appears in the first round or my mock draft.) (10-28-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24771634/nfl-draft-week-nine-stock-report
2015 NFL Draft: Trio of NFL hopefuls help UK push No. 1 Miss St. (The 6-foot-4, 267 pound Dupree is NFLDraftScout.com's top-rated senior defensive end and made his debut on my personal Big Board last week. Boasting long arms, a quick burst and the agility to evade cut-blocks, Dupree (pronounced Doo-prey) projects well as traditional 4-3 defensive end or in the stand-up outside linebacker role he currently stars for the Wildcats. Dupree, who entered the game as the SEC's reigning sacks leader with 19 career QB takedowns, was often asked to drop into coverage or flatten out his rushes in an attempt to keep Prescott from scrambling. The alignment robbed him of opportunities to rush upfield and build upon his impressive resume but helped the Wildcats apply some big hits to Prescott. Though he didn't have the opportunities to rush often, Dupree showed an explosive burst to close when he did, teaming with Smith to supply a vicious high-low hit on Prescott late in the second quarter that resulted in a wobbly thrown interception. Dupree fed off an increasingly raucous Kentucky crowd but wasn't reliant on them to beat Mississippi State's tackles off the ball when asked to do so. Dupree varies his rushes, lulling opponents to sleep with one speed and surprising them with an occasional extra burst to generate big plays at critical moments. In pursuit, he shows the ability to stalk ball-carriers, catching up and closing emphatically for the type of big hits (even from behind) that can result in forced fumbles. Dupree's production, length and closing speed have scouts buzzing. Smith was the more consistent of the two.) (10-25-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24768136/nfl-draft-trio-of-nfl-hopefuls-help-uk-push-no-1-miss-st
2015 NFL Draft: Week 9 Prospect Preview (DE/OLB Alvin “Bud” Dupree, Kentucky: Kentucky's football program has produced only one top-50 draft pick since 2000 (DT Dewayne Robertson, 2003), but Dupree could change that next spring. A former tight end, the Wildcats' pass rusher moved to defense and has flourished, improving each game. Dupree has easy get-off acceleration with an explosive first step and closing burst to finish at the ballcarrier. He has moved to more of a stand-up linebacker role as a senior, which has allowed him to show off his sideline-to-sideline speed and versatility dropping in coverage, but he can be overwhelmed in the run game at times. If Kentucky has any chance of upsetting Mississippi State, Dupree will have to be active pestering Prescott in the backfield.) (10-23-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24764097/nfl-draft-week-9-prospect-preview
Alvin Dupree, Mark Stoops help lift Kentucky from doormat to contender (10-14-14): http://www.si.com/college-football/2014/10/09/kentucky-wildcats-alvin-dupree-mark-stoops-sec
2015 NFL Draft: Kentucky Preview (DE Alvin "Bud" Dupree: Boasting a similar skill-set as some of the recent pass rushers Stoops helped guide while serving as defensive coordinator at Florida State, Dupree predictably enjoyed a strong junior season, leading all SEC defensive linemen with 61 tackles, including 9.5 tackles for loss and a team-high seven sacks. Just as he did in his first season at Lexington, Dupree spent last year primarily at defensive end, after starring as a stand-up linebacker in Kentucky's ill-fated switch to a 3-4 in 2012. Statistically speaking, the move cost Dupree production as he posted an impressive 91 tackles (including 12.5 tackles for loss) in 2012. The move showed his versatility and forced him to get stronger at the point of attack -- something he'll need to continue to work on if he is going to remain at defensive end in the NFL. Dupree does a nice job of varying his get-off out of the three-point stance. He isn't truly explosive but can time the snap well to surprise pass-blockers after lulling them to sleep. He locates the football quickly and is passionate in pursuit, making a number of his plays yards downfield after his initial rush went for naught. Dupree changes directions quickly and has impressive acceleration for his size. He isn't afraid to leave to his feet and dive to make the tackle, showing good hand-eye coordination to trip up ball-carriers. He shows more savvy than strength at the point of attack, struggling to disengage consistently from powerful blockers once they latch on but shows good lateral agility to slip past the bigger, slower opponents, as well as an understanding of leverage to get under their pads and to create a pile to plug-up the action. The staff at Kentucky speaks highly of Dupree's work ethic and willingness to switch positions to help the team. Dupree, who has gained 15 pounds of muscle since signing with the Wildcats and was voted a team captain last year, specifically mentioned that he returned for his senior campaign "to help Coach Stoops with the program" and is on pace to graduate with a degree in Community and Leadership Development.) (8-15-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24662095/nfl-draft-kentucky-preview
UK defensive end Bud Dupree everybody's 'freak' athlete (7-9-14): http://www.courier-journal.com/story/sports/college/kentucky/2014/07/08/uk-defensive-end-bud-dupree-everybodys-freak-athlete/12374397/
DE Owamagbe Odighizuwa:
Scouting Reports:
UCLA Profile Page: http://www.uclabruins.com/ViewArticle.dbml?ATCLID=207914028
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2015/profiles/owamagbe-odighizuwa?id=2552275
CBS: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/1737142/owamagbe-odighizuwa
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=110949&draftyear=2015&genpos=DE
Bob Sturm's Profile: http://cowboysblog.dallasnews.com/2015/02/sturms-draft-profile-owamagbe-odighizuwa-de-ucla.html/
Articles:
2015 NFL Draft: WR Tre McBride among 2015 Firstborn Favorites (Early Rounds (Top-100 picks) - Owa Odighizuwa, UCLA (6-4, 267, 4.62) -- Odgihizuwa physically looks like he was built with a NFL starter kit and has the athleticism, build and football skills that allows him to be equally effective vs. the run and the pass. As long as the hips check out medically, he projects as a dependable starter.) (4-24-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25161990/nfl-draft-wr-tre-mcbride-among-2015-firstborn-favorites
Lions draft preview: Edge rusher not top priority (7. Owamagbe Odighizuwa, UCLA: The 6-foot-3, 267-pound Odighizuwa is a great athlete for his size and fits what the Lions have looked for in defensive ends in recent years. He has limited moves, but has no problem converting speed into power as a rusher.) (4-21-15): http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2015/04/21/lions-draft-preview-edge-rusher-not-likely-target/26149355/
NFP Prospect Focus: Owamagbe Odighizuwa (4-17-15): http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/nfp-prospect-focus-owamagbe-odighizuwa/
O'HARA'S DRAFT PREVIEW: Defensive line (DE Owa Odighizuwa, UCLA: He’s a tremendous physical specimen who hasn’t converted his ability into sustained production. A five-year player, he missed all of 2013 with surgery on a hip labrum but returned in 2014 to start all 13 games and register 11.5 tackles for loss with six sacks. Also projected as a linebacker.) (4-15-15): http://www.detroitlions.com/news/ohara/article-1/OHARAS-DRAFT-PREVIEW-Defensive-line/a61fece9-bf1e-427f-b1ec-a626f4172aef
Source: UCLA defensive Owamagbe Odighizuwa visited Cowboys, Saints next week (4-9-15): http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/source-ucla-defensive-owamagbe-odighizuwa-visited-cowboys-saints-next-week/
Cowboys to host three former Pac-12 star defenders Odighizuwa and Kendricks on Tuesday visit (4-6-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000483636/article/cowboys-to-host-uclas-eric-kendricks-owamagbe-odighizuwa
Nos. 44–40: Underrated playmakers from top teams (44. Owamagbe Odighizuwa, DE, UCLA: Bio: Odighizuwa started six games as a true freshman in 2011, and he played in every one of UCLA’s contests from '11–12 and in '14. He lost the entire 2013 season, though, because of separate surgeries on each of his hips. Back in the lineup for his redshirt senior year, Odighizuwa recorded 61 tackles, 6.0 sacks and a team-leading 11.5 tackles for loss—four of which came in a single outing against Utah. In the 2012 and ‘14 seasons combined, he posted 17.5 tackles for loss and 9.5 sacks. Strengths: Should be able to step in and help against the run almost immediately. Plays with the power necessary to hold the edge, no surprise to anyone who has seen him in person—he’s built like he has been in an NFL weightlifting program for years. Good leverage when met by a blocker, driving forward from his legs. Aggressive use of his hands, which provides a necessary complement to his lower-body power. Battles off blockers to make tackles and capable of stringing run plays to the sideline. Stunts with enough authority to be a handful. Tested extremely well at the combine (4.62 40-yard dash, 39-inch vertical, 127-inch broad jump). Ought to be no questions from scouts about his effort level, as he plays 60 minutes at top speed. Projects as either a 4–3 DE or 3–4 OLB; that versatility will help him. Weaknesses: Even though he said that his combine medical tests went off without a hitch, Odighizuwa’s 2013 injury woes will drive him down some draft boards. Does not possess tremendous sideline-to-sideline speed as it is. If the hip issues resurface and/or cost him any of his leg drive, it will be tough for him to make a long-lasting impact. Career sack numbers oversell his actual abilities as a pass-rusher. Initial burst, rush design or broken plays will get him some shots, but he does not generate a whole lot on his own off just his repertoire. Sticking point on a 3-4 linebacker move could be in coverage—little to no evidence thus far that he can handle those assignments in the NFL, despite his footwork. Conclusion: The notions of a two-down linebacker or two-down defensive tackle are familiar ones in casual NFL parlance. A two-down DE is not quite as common, but there are some players cut from that cloth, and Odighizuwa is, at the bare minimum, in that class. Given his 12.5 career sacks while at UCLA and developing game, though, there should be some hope that he can stay on the field for all three downs. He will provide potential immediate impact vs. the run as a rookie. He could be an All-Pro-caliber, all-around defensive end a couple of years down the road. Pro Comparison: Everson Griffen, Vikings(Round 4, 2011).) (4-3-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/04/03/2015-nfl-draft-ranking-si-64-jaelen-strong-jalen-collins-ameer-abdullah
Davis: 5 draft prospects who will be better pros than college players (Owamagbe Odighizuwa, DE, UCLA: Odighizuwa is similar to Dupree in that he'll flash on tape but then won't pop up again for a while. Can he be a force and string together a series of good games? We don't know yet. He sure looks the part, though. He's a physical specimen, but he's never had that big, breakout season and needs to show more consistency. He missed the entire 2013 season after undergoing surgery on both hips, so injuries have certainly been a factor in his career. If he can stay healthy and put it all together, he should be a better pro than college player.) (3-23-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000481180/article/five-draft-prospects-who-will-be-better-pros-than-college-players
2015 NFL Draft: Lance Zierlein's top 10 defensive line prospects (10. DE Owamagbe Odighizuwa, UCLA: Zierlein's bottom line: Odighizuwa has some scheme versatility, but he's not necessarily a versatile player. Some scouts believe that he could open some eyes with his straight-line speed in his workout, but his marginal pass-rush skills and average athleticism could stunt his draft stock.) (3-23-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000480740/article/2015-nfl-draft-lance-zierleins-top-10-defensive-linemen
2015 Pro Days Notebook Part II (Owamagbe Odighizuwa – DE – stayed with the results of his combine times. He looked good when working out as a defensive end, but when the linebacker coaches had him do some drops, he didn’t look as comfortable. I’m told that some clubs will still work him in private workouts as a linebacker just to get a better feel.) (3-15-15): http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/2015-pro-days-notebook-part-ii/
UCLA football demonstrates talent to scouts, coaches on Pro Day (DE Owamagbe Odighizuwa: Arguably no player has had his draft stock rise more following the team’s season finale in the Alamo Bowl than Owamagbe Odighizuwa. The former redshirt defensive end delivered one of the standout performances of the Combine, and delivered another strong outing Tuesday. Odighizuwa chose to stand by the numbers he put up at the Combine but went through both linebacker and defensive line position drills, where he performed admirably. At 6-foot-3 and 270 pounds, Odighizuwa is built like a statue, but showed off his athleticism by moving very well in space when asked to drop back, which he said was what he set out to accomplish at Spaulding Field. “I wanted to show my versatility and that you can throw me into a drill and I’m going to execute it exactly how they want it done,” Odighizuwa said. “I wanted to show athleticism, how smooth I am, my quickness, my explosiveness.” He also showed that he is capable of playing in multiple schemes at fronts at the next level after a strong workout. Despite playing almost exclusively with his hand in the ground as a defensive end in UCLA’s 3-4 scheme, Odighizuwa’s workout lends credence to the thought that he can be an edge rusher as a 4-3 defensive end of 3-4 outside linebacker in the NFL. His former coach certainly thinks so. “Today teams got a chance to see him work in space. I think people are really starting to appreciate him,” Mora said.) (3-10-15): http://dailybruin.com/2015/03/10/ucla-football-demonstrates-talent-to-scouts-coaches-on-pro-day/
2015 NFL Draft: Athletic class of defensive linemen (4/25. Owamagbe Odighizuwa, UCLA, 6-3, 267, 4.62, 1: Deep breath, now say "Oh-wah-MAH-bay Oh-DIGGY-zoo-wah." Although his statistics aren't startling, Odighizuwa can be as difficult to block as it is to pronounce his name. After missing 2013 following two hip surgeries, his return to action in 2014 was impressive. He tied for the team lead with 11.5 tackles for a loss and showed versatility as a rough-and-tumble edge player in the Bruins' 3-4 defense. By far the biggest concern is his health as Odighizuwa had surgery on his left hip after the 2012 season, sat out spring ball in 2013 only to require a second surgery, this time on his right hip. Measuring up: Combine sensation with 39-inch vertical jump, 40-yard time of 4.62 seconds (10 yards in 1.61) and was even impressive standing still, when his powerful hands measured 11 inches across, tied for largest at Indianapolis. Notable quote: "Everything has checked out. I'm good to go. Obviously, they saw the surgery in my hips. I did MRI earlier this week to make sure they saw what they needed to see. The range of motion is good and they were real impressed with everything." Odighizuwa, reciting details of his medical checkup at the combine. Frankly: Good luck to commissioner Roger Goodell calling this name, probably in the first round of the draft. And good luck to Odighizuwa and the team that drafts him as they both hope for a healthy, productive career.) (3-10-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25101900/nfl-draft-athletic-class-of-defensive-linemen
2015 NFL Draft: QB Brett Hundley looks 'smooth' at UCLA pro day (Pass rusher Owa Odighizuwa performed drills at defensive end and standing up at linebacker at the Bruins pro day and attracted a lot of attention. He was considered as a mid-to-late first round pick by NFL teams prior to the draft process with the one caveat being his medical reports. The only aspect of Odighizuwa's draft evaluation that could keep him out of the first round is long-term durability concerns.) (3-10-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25101714/nfl-draft-qb-brett-hundley-looks-smooth-at-ucla-pro-day
Owamagbe Odighizuwa might be the player who helped himself the most on Tuesday at UCLA's Pro Day (Both Odighizuwa and Mora indicated NFL teams understand that while Odighizuwa's numbers might not be as robust as other pass rushers in the draft, the production might have been limited because he primarily played as a 3-4 defensive end in the Bruins' system. Indications are NFL teams think he's fully capable of rushing the passer at other spots and easily adaptable to a variety of roles. "I've got a lot of feedback and it's all been positive, first-round area," Odighizuwa said. "I'm just trying to increase (my stock) as much as I can. It comes down to showing versatility and athleticism and everything that teams want out of a defensive end and outside linebacker-type.") (3-10-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000477881/article/brett-hundley-boosts-nfl-draft-stock-at-ucla-bruins-pro-day
UCLA's Owamagbe Odighizuwa continues to climb NFL draft charts (3-10-15): http://www.latimes.com/sports/ucla/uclanow/la-sp-ucla-pro-day-nfl-owamagbe-odighizuwa-20150310-story.html
2015 NFL Combine: 25 Takeaways include Risers/Fallers/Pro Days (Owa Odighizuwa, DE, UCLA: There may not be a more imposing physical specimen than the 6-3, 267 former Bruin, who enjoyed a spectacular combine performance, demonstrating explosiveness in the 40-yard dash (4.62) and vertical jump (39"), as well as agility in the shuttle drills (7.36 in the 3-cone). Odighizuwa comes with medical questions, however, as he'd undergone surgeries on both hips.) (2-24-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/blog/rob-rang/25079684/nfl-combine-25-takeaways-include-risersfallerspro-days
2015 NFL Combine Stock Report - Defensive Linemen (Owa Odighizuwa, DE/OLB, UCLA : Owa Ogighizuwa needed to show that he has the ability to play linebacker at the next level, and he did just that at the NFL Combine. He looked good in the linebacker drills, as his athleticism allowed him to drop smoothly into coverage. He's still better in the 4-3, but the versatility will help him - as will the 4.62 40 he ran in Indianapolis. ) (2-24-15): http://walterfootball.com/combine2015stockDL.php
NFL Scouting Combine: USC, UCLA edition (UCLA DE Owamagbe Odighizuwa: To say the UCLA defensive end tested well would be an understatement. He showed the athleticism that was more or less expected of him. He recorded a 10 feet, 7 inch in the broad jump which was the best of any defensive lineman at the Combine, as was his 39-inch vertical jump. The 4.62 in the 40-yard dash he ran was the second fastest among his position group. His 4.19 in the 20-yard shuttle was tied for second among defensive linemen. He also ran a 7.36 in the three-cone drill which was in the top-15 in his position group.) (2-24-15): http://www.foxsports.com/west/story/nfl-scouting-combine-uscs-williams-looks-like-no-1-uclas-hundley-climbing-qb-ranks-022415
Owamagbe Odighizuwa dominates NFL Combine: Is he top defensive lineman prospect for 2015 NFL Draft? (2-23-15): http://www.oregonlive.com/nfl/index.ssf/2015/02/owamagbe_odighizuwa_dominates.html
Video - 2015 Combine workout: UCLA DL Owamagbe Odighizuwa (2-23-15): http://www.sportingnews.com/video/66912
Day 3 risers and sliders: Beasley runs into big time (Owamagbe Odighizuwa, DE, UCLA: Put him in your spell-checkers right now, folks. In UCLA's defense, Odighizuwa alternated between 3-4 end and pass rusher with his hand off the ground, and he was ranked by many as a borderline first-round pick for his effective versatility alone. However, a combine performance that saw him run an unofficial 4.64 40 with a 1.63 10-yard split at 6'3" and 267 pounds? That's good stuff, and it may have people rethinking the idea that Odighizuwa doesn't have elite speed off the edge for his size. He had two hip surgeries in 2013, but he checked out with the combine medical team, and he certainly checked out on the field. "I think of myself as a versatile athlete," Odighizuwa said this week. "I was able to do a lot of things at UCLA. What I do Sunday I believe will display what I can do athletically." Odighizuwa, who totaled 12 1/2 sacks and 24 1/2 tackles for loss at UCLA, is off to a very good start in the pre-draft process.) (2-22-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/02/22/combine-day-3-risers-and-sliders-vic-beasley-runs-big-time
Jeremiah: UCLA end 'a freaky athlete' (UCLA DE Owamagbe Odighizuwa (pronounced Oh-wuh-MAH-bay Oh-DIGGY-zoo-wuh) certainly looks the part of a big-time player: Mayock calls him "a freaky athlete." Odighizuwa (6-3 1/2, 267) was a big-time recruit (a national top-20 player) coming out of high school. But he battled injuries and inconsistency as a Bruin. He ran a great 40 of 4.62 and had an impressive 1.62 10-yard split. Odighizuwa had a broad jump of 10 feet, 7 inches, and a great vertical jump of 39 inches. "I've got a second-round grade on him," said Mayock, who also said, "I think he's a base 4-3 end." Mayock touted Odighizuwa's "extremely strong hands" as a selling point.) (2-22-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000473388/article/jeremiah-danny-shelton-a-day-1-starter-despite-40-time
2015 NFL combine: day 5 news and notes (UCLA’s Owamagbe Odighizuwa showcased his elite burst with a 10 yard splits of 1.63 and 1.62 on his 4.64 and 4.66 40 yard dashes. Odighizuwa also put up a 10 foot 5 inch broad jump and a 39 inch vertical.) (2-22-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-nfl-combine-day-5-news-notes.html
2015 NFL Combine Bench Press Analysis - Defensive Linemen (UCLA defensive end Owa Odighizuwa is an impressive athlete as well. He blazed a fast 40 time of 4.62 seconds. One thing that evaluators wanted to see is how Odighizuwa moved in linebacker drills. Odighizuwa (6-3, 267) held his own and didn't look bad dropping in coverage as a linebacker. His natural athleticism makes one think he could get it done, but if a 3-4 team drafts him, he'll need some development to get his footwork down.) (2-21-15): http://walterfootball.com/combine2015benchDL.php
2015 NFL Combine Five Things to Know (UCLA DE Owa Odighizuwa - With a pair of hip surgeries, one to his left hip and one to his right, UCLA DE Owa Odighizuwa is one of the players NFL teams have a close eye on this week in regards to the medical evaluation. But according to "Diggy," he received the thumbs up. "Everything has checked out, I'm good to go," Odighizuwa answered when asked about the medical exam. "Obviously, they saw the surgery in my hips. I had a MRI earlier this week to make sure they saw what they needed to see. The range of motion is good and they were real impressed with everything." Odighizuwa is an impressive specimen at 267 pounds with the athleticism that stands out on the field. While he said his hard work has paid off, he also credited his genes for his natural ability, despite his father (5-feet-8) and mother (5-9) not being the tallest in stature. Odighizuwa doesn't consider himself a defensive end or linebacker, he thinks he's both. "I think of myself as a versatile athlete," Odighizuwa said. "I was able to do a lot of things at UCLA. What I do Sunday [at the combine] I believe will display what I can do athletically." Odighizuwa added that 3-4 teams see him as a linebacker while 4-3 teams are scouting him as a defensive end. He also saw snaps inside for the Bruins so his versatility is a key piece to his NFL evaluation. And as long as the medicals reports are as positive as Odighizuwa says, he has a chance to be a first-round pick in April.) (2-20-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25075728/nfl-combine-five-things-to-know-fowler-checks-boxes
Indy stars: Five freaks poised to light up the combine (Owamagbe Odighizuwa, DE, UCLA: He battled injuries during his career at UCLA, but he put together an excellent 2014 campaign. Odighizuwa is one of the most physically impressive players in this draft class and should put up huge testing numbers in Indianapolis. Last spring, he weighed 264 pounds and ran a 4.62 40-yard dash. At the combine, I wouldn't be surprised if he checked in at 270 pounds and run something in the 4.5 range. Also, he should impress in the jumping events.) (2-17-15): http://www.nfl.com/combine/story/0ap3000000470652/article/potential-combine-stars-phillip-dorsett-shane-ray-devin-smith
Senior Bowl Review: Defense (Owamagbe Odighizuwa, UCLA - Owa can absolutely win on the edge, and potentially the wider the alignment the better. He had the best get off of any edge player in terms of creating speed in his first few strides. In fact, at times it looked like Owa was sprinting towards his opponent before converting speed to power. It is why I liked Cornelius Washington as a prospect, and we all know how poorly that turned out. Although Owa does offer a bit more than this one trait.) (1-30-15): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/51931/351/all-star-circuit
Count Shane Carden among players needing standout Senior Bowl (Owamagbe Odighizuwa, DE, UCLA: His impressive week demonstrated his length, lateral disruption and explosiveness as a pass rusher. Odighizuwa give tackle prospects trouble, so don't be surprised if Roger Goodell says his name in Round 1 of the NFL Draft. A big game could cement top-40 selection.) (1-24-15): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/story/2015-01-24/2015-nfl-draft-senior-bowl-who-needs-to-perform-well-shane-carden
2015 Senior Bowl Scouting: inside the XOS film room with Josh Norris (UCLA’s Owamagbe Odighizuwa easily had the first step and suddenness among edge rushers here. His speed to power move was ferocious, and only La’el Collins could anchor down against “Diggy”. The problem we both saw during film study was Odighizuwa’s lack of self-awarenss. He needs to realize that his speed-to-power is his number one move and rely on that explosive power more often. He doesn’t need to waste his time with a speed rush and instead needs to play directly through his opponent.)(1-23-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-senior-bowl-scouting-inside-xos-film-room-josh-norris.html
2015 Senior Bowl Scouting: Thursday South Practice Notes (UCLA stud Owamagbe Odighizuwa had another strong day of work. He’s very physical and has plus power. He doesn’t have great twitch, but he’s quick enough to be a threat as a defensive end to complement his power.) (1-22-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-senior-bowl-scouting-thursday-south-practice-notes.html
2015 Senior Bowl Thursday's South Practice Report (Odighizuwa and Louisville outside linebacker Lorenzo Mauldin also played well on Thursday. Both did well in the pass-rushing one-on-ones, and Odighizuwa had sacks on Sims in the two-minute drill.) (1-22-15): http://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2015practice7.php
Senior Bowl 2015: Portland native Owamagbe Odighizuwa hopes to turn heads (1-22-15): http://www.oregonlive.com/collegefootball/index.ssf/2015/01/senior_bowl_2015_portland_nati.html
2015 Senior Bowl: South loaded on offensive, defensive lines (Though he measured in nearly 30 pounds lighter in Mobile than listed by the Bruins, Odighizuwa has already been one of the big winners this week. Powerful and quick, he has been a consistent source of harassment off the edge, using speed as well as power to knock would-be blockers onto the heels. At 6-3 1/2, 266 pounds, Odighizuwa has the strength to hold up in run support -- a feature that the South's other defensive ends, Trey Flowers (Arkansas) and Preston Smith (Mississippi State) also possess -- but he's quicker off the ball than either of his competitors, which could earn him a significantly earlier grade on draft day if he checks out medically. Odighizuwa missed the entire 2013 season after undergoing two surgeries on his left hip.) (1-21-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24982677/senior-bowl-south-loaded-on-offensive-defensive-lines
Walterfootball's Wednesday's South practice report (Lastly, UCLA defensive end Owa Odighizuwa and Louisville outside linebacker Lorenzo Mauldin did well on Wednesday. Odighizuwa used a fast spin move with a strong push at the start to beat Ausitn Shepherd. On a bull rush, Odighizuwa beat Sambrailo. Mauldin had a win over Collins on a speed rush around the edge. In the team scrimmage, Mauldin combined with Missouri's Markus Golden for a sack as they burned off the edge. All three of those edge rushers: Mauldin, Odighizuwa, and Golden have represented themselves well.) (1-21-15): http://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2015practice3.php
2015 Senior Bowl Scouting: Tuesday North Practice Notes (The top performer on the line was UCLA defensive end Owamagbe Odighizuwa. After a great weigh in, he was able to flaunt his quick, light feet in individual drills, and then showed to be a powerful force in team drills. Odighizuwa has great length and plays low enough to be a good run defender consistently.) (1-21-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-senior-bowl-scouting-tuesday-north-practice-notes.html
Senior Bowl: Pauline's Day 1 Risers (Owamagbe Odighizuwa/DL/UCLA – If Davis was the big winner, Odighizuwa, 6-3, 266, was not far behind. He did not display the same power as Davis, though he did drive LSU's La'el Collins off the line and into the pocket on one occasion. Instead, Odighizuwa was more athletic and effective running down plays from the backside.) (1-20-15): http://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/news/article-1/Senior-Bowl-Paulines-Day-1-Risers/8ca339eb-e851-4b82-9e65-de2eead6d34c
Senior Bowl Weigh-in Notes (UCLA DE Owa Odighizua has freakish hands at over 11″. At 266 pounds and with 33.25″ arms, he’s a guy who fits the profile of Martin Mayhew edge rushers, though I do not believe the Lions go in that direction when he’s still available.) (1-20-15): http://www.detroitlionsdraft.com/2015/01/senior-bowl-weigh-in-notes/
2015 Senior Bowl: Auburn's Sammie Coates steals show at South weigh-in (UCLA DE Owa Odighizuwa appeared better suited for a bodybuilder competition with his shredded body type and head-to-toe muscle definition. He measured 6-3 (1/2”) and 266 pounds with huge hands (11 1/8”) and ideal length (33 1/8”). Odighizuwa was definitely one of the "winners" of the South squad during weigh-ins.) (1-20-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24980468/senior-bowl-auburns-sammie-coates-steals-show-at-south-weigh-in
Ten NFL draft prospects to watch in practices leading up to Senior Bowl (Owamagbe Odighizuwa, DE, UCLA: Among those edge guys with which Collins and the rest of the offensive tackles will have to contend is Odighizuwa, who closed the 2014 season with a burst. He was impressive in the Alamo Bowl, swatting two passes and racking up six tackles. Odighizuwa's 6-3, 270-pound frame, coupled with his quickness getting into the backfield, makes him a difficult assignment up front. Turned loose in one-on-one drills this week, his speed-power combo should earn him some points among the scouts in attendance.) (1-19-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/01/19/senior-bowl-2015-preview-blake-sims-bryce-petty
2015 Senior Bowl: 10 defensive prospects to watch (DE Owamagbe Odighizuwa, UCLA (6-3, 268, 4.78): A former top five-star recruit out of high school, Odighizuwa is body beautiful with a lot of natural ability that can't be coached, but his UCLA career didn't go quite as planned, mostly due to a pair of hip surgeries in 2013. Nonetheless, Odighizuwa has the traits to be a NFL starter if he stays healthy and builds off the momentum he showed as a senior.) (1-19-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24978490/senior-bowl-10-defensive-prospects-to-watch
Washington's Danny Shelton the guy to watch at Senior Bowl and other observations from an analyst (Davis thinks this week is important for UCLA defensive end Owamagbe Odighizuwa (his name is pronounced "Oh-wuh-MAH-bay Oh-DIGGY-zoo-wuh"). "He looks gorgeous in a football uniform," Davis said, then noted that "his production didn't always match the look.") (1-19-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000461003/article/washingtons-danny-shelton-the-guy-to-watch-at-senior-bowl
NFL Draft Watch: 20 players we'll be watching at the Senior Bowl (UCLA DE Owamgabe Odighizuwa — The 6-3, 270-pound Odighizuwa could stand out after a strong finish to his season, capped with a strong bowl performance. He has several nicknames, including "OO" (although we favor "O2") and could become as much of a household name as he can by winning those aforementioned pass-rush drills in practice. Odighizuwa translates power to speed and can hold his own against bigger tackles. He missed the entire 2013 season following hip surgery but had a terrific 2014 campaign and could carry that over this week as a versatile defender.) (1-19-15): http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nfl-shutdown-corner/nfl-draft-watch--20-players-we-ll-be-watching-at-the-senior-bowl-025609307.html
Senior Bowl Week Preview (UCLA DE Owamagbe Odighizua. The Bruins pass rusher missed all of 2013 with a hip injury, and that caused his profile to fade. A strong senior season (6 sacks, 11.5 tackles for loss, four PDs) put him back on the map. Listed at 6’3” and 270 pounds, he’s got ideal size to play in a 4-3 as a strongside end. The pass rush and team drills, where he’ll often have to deal with a tight end as well as a tackle, will be telling for his draft stock. A good week here and he’s solidly in the top 40 picks. If he doesn’t show twitchiness or refined moves, he could fall to the top of the third round. One of my goals for the week is to learn how to pronounce and type his name without looking it up.) (1-19-15): http://football.realgm.com/analysis/2588/Senior-Bowl-Week-Preview
2015 Senior Bowl Preview (Two more Pac-12 standouts, UCLA’s Owamagbe Odighizuwa and Washington’s Hau’oli Kikaha. Owa has an awesome first snap but limited bend.) (1-19-15): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/51714/351/2015-senior-bowl-preview
2015 Senior Bowl: South Defense Scouting Preview (Owamagbe Odighizuwa, UCLA: Owamagbe’s name is ridiculously hard to spell and pronounce, but he’s a legit NFL prospect with his combination of length and strength off the edge. Owamagbe does an impressive job of leveraging underneath blockers and locking out to reset the line of scrimmage in the backfield. So while he may not finish with a ton of sacks on the box score, he’s disrupting opposing offenses and allowing his teammates to flow to the football. He’ll be a day two option for NFL teams.) (1-18-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-senior-bowl-south-defense-scouting-preview.html
UCLA’s Owamagbe Odighizuwa is impressive on the football field, but curious off it too (12-29-14): http://www.dailynews.com/sports/20141229/uclas-owamagbe-odighizuwa-is-impressive-on-the-football-field-but-curious-off-it-too
Inside the Pocket: 2014 College Football All-Underrated Team (DL Owamagbe Odighizuwa, UCLA: The Bruins weren't able to generate as much pressure on opposing offenses this year after the departure of Anthony Barr, but that's not the fault of the player everybody calls "Owa." Finally healthy this season, he's been able to show off his power, speed and quickness to the edge.) (12-16-14): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000444843/article/inside-the-pocket-2014-college-football-allunderrated-team
2015 NFL Draft Stock Report (DE Owamagbe Odighizuwa, UCLA: Although the stat sheet doesn't always reflect his on-field play, Odighizuwa has been terrific as a senior and against USC, his presence was felt both on the field and in the box score. Entering the game with only three sacks in 2014, he recorded a pair of sacks against the Trojans and routinely put pressure on Cody Kessler, forcing him to speed up his process and make ill-advise decisions. Odighizuwa has a scheme-versatile skill-set that will appeal to both 4-3 and 3-4 teams with his size and athletic traits. He is body beautiful with a frame made for the NFL, the length and strength to play the run and the quickness and body control to disrupt the passer. Odighizuwa's past injuries and lack of production will be used to knock him down during the pre-draft process, but the tape doesn't lie and he should test well during workouts, only further illustrating his versatile skill-set.) (11-25-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24839573/nfl-draft-stock-report-indianas-tevin-coleman-moves-up
PFF's College Game of the Week: Trojans at Bruins (Owamagbe Odighizuwa, DE: +9.5: Breakdown: Leonard Williams might have shown impressive strength and run stuffing ability, but Odighizuwa brought the heat like nobody else in this game. He was a constant thorn in the side of USC as was teammate Deon Hollins. Signature Stat: Notched two sacks, two hits and six hurries in just 35 pass-rushing snaps. PFF Game Ball - The game had a few impressive performers but none more so than Owamagbe Odighizuwa who put forward a dominant display.) (11-23-14): https://www.profootballfocus.com/blog/2014/11/23/college-game-of-the-week-trojans-bruins/
2015 NFL Draft: UCLA's Owamagbe Odighizuwa a name to know now (11-22-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24831853/nfl-draft-uclas-owamagbe-odighizuwa-a-name-to-know-now
2015 NFL Draft prospect preview: Who to watch in Week 13 (DE Owamagbe Odighizuwa, UCLA:
With only three sacks this season, Odighizuwa (Oh-DIGGY-zoo-wuh) doesn't have impressive numbers, but the tape tells a different story. In the Bruins' versatile 3-4 base defense, his main responsibility is to seal the edge and play the run, using his length and power to occupy blockers to help plug run lanes and give the other rushers a chance to disrupt the pocket. On some passing downs, Odighizuwa does stand up as an edge rusher and has a chance to show off his skill-set as a pass rush threat, using his natural bend and athleticism to beat blockers in space. His pass rush arsenal is still a work-in-progress, but his active hands are always working and his versatility to rush or play the run will be attractive.) (11-20-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24822379/nfl-draft-prospect-preview-who-to-watch-in-week-13
UCLA's Owamagbe Odighizuwa, a Portland native, searches for his career's happy ending (10-14-14): http://www.oregonlive.com/ducks/index.ssf/2014/10/portland_native_and_ucla_defen.html
UCLA’s Owamagbe Odighizuwa spells trouble for opposing offenses (8-22-14): http://www.dailynews.com/sports/20140822/uclas-owamagbe-odighizuwa-spells-trouble-for-opposing-offenses
Owamagbe Odighizuwa working out ‘cobwebs’ after two hip surgeries (9-5-13): http://www.dailynews.com/sports/20130905/owamagbe-odighizuwa-working-out-cobwebs-after-two-hip-surgeries
Week One: Risers & Sliders (Owamagbe Odighizuwa/DL/UCLA: I raved about Odighizuwa prior to the 2013 season but a hip injury sidelined him the entire year. Against Virginia he looked as dominant as ever. Odighizuwa offers a terrific combination of athleticism, quickness and explosion. He was constantly behind the line of scrimmage disrupting the action and was omnipresent all game long. Expect Odighizuwa to raise his play as the season progresses and continue to rise up draft boards.) (9-1-14): http://www.draftinsider.net/blog/?p=9996
2015 NFL Draft: Hundley struggles, Odighizuwa flashes for UCLA (Senior defensive end Owamagbe Odighizuwa, however, helped his NFL stock the most with Saturday's performance. Odighizuwa, who missed the entire 2013 season after two separate surgeries on his left hip, provided consistent disruption from right defensive end position and played a key role in two of UCLA's three defensive touchdowns of the first half. Scouts love pass rushers with long arms and the 6-foot-3, 270 pound Odighizuwa showed why, reaching over Virginia left tackle Michael Mooney to graze the football as starting quarterback Greyson Lambert delivered a second quarter pass. The ball floated over its intended target and into the hands of cornerback Ishmael Adams for the Bruins' first score of the season. Roughly 10 minutes of play later, Odighizuwa forced a quick throw from Lambert that Kendricks picked off to give the Bruins a commanding 21-3 lead. Odighizuwa showed good balance and agility to spin back inside on the play to threaten Lambert after consistently beating Mooney off the edge with a combination of burst and power. Virginia head coach Mike London switched to Johns on the next drive.) (8-30-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24688178/nfl-draft-hundley-struggles-odighizuwa-flashes-for-ucla
DE Za'Darius Smith:
Scouting Reports:
UK Profile Page: http://www.ukathletics.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/zadarius_smith_844217.html
NFL: http://www.nfl.com/draft/2015/profiles/zadarius-smith?id=2552279
CBS: http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/players/2061139/zadarius-smith
NFL Draft Scout: http://www.nfldraftscout.com/ratings/dsprofile.php?pyid=128147&draftyear=2015&genpos=de
Articles:
Unsung draft prospects lead All-Underrated Team (Defensive End: Za'Darius Smith, Kentucky: When I was watching Bud Dupree play for the Wildcats, Smith kept popping off the tape, as well. He's a 6-4, 274-pound multi-gap player who looks best as a run-stopping end, but can kick inside to tackle and will use high effort to kick off blocks and disrupt plays from whenever he's lined up. Once an NFL line coach gets hold of him and squares away his technique, Smith could be special.) (4-28-15): http://www.si.com/nfl/2015/04/28/2015-NFL-draft-underrated-prospects-garrett-grayson-david-johnson
Scouting the SEC: Kentucky's Top Prospects in 2015 NFL Draft (Za'Darius Smith, DE, Senior (6-4, 274, 4.73) NFLDraftScout.com Rank #97 overall/#10 DE: Projection: Third Round. Smith didn't generate the buzz of his former teammate but is an intriguing prospect in his own right, after only picking up football in 2010. Despite focusing on basketball to that point, Smith already looks the part of an NFL player, with broad shoulders and an impressive build that speaks to his work ethic. In terms of style, Smith couldn't be much different from Dupree, relying more on his strength and tenacity rather than athleticism to get the job done. He's a classic 4-3 base defensive end who won't generate much pressure off the corner but can be counted on to set the edge against the run. Smith created some postseason momentum for himself by earning Defensive MVP honors at the East-West Shrine Game.) (4-18-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/25153955/scouting-the-sec-kentuckys-top-prospects-in-2015-nfl-draft
2014 NFL Draft: DT Grady Jarrett headlines my Better-Than Team (Za'Darius Smith, DE, Kentucky: Bud Dupree was the highlight guy on the Kentucky defense, but Smith is a late bloomer who has the tools to be an effective edge player. He played down in their 3-4 a lot, but I think he's a 4-3 end. He is strong and has good hands. He didn't start playing football until 2010. He has a lot of raw ability.) (4-16-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/writer/pete-prisco/25151739/nfl-draft-smallish-dt-grady-jarrett-headlines-my-better-than-team
What we learned from Thursday's pro days (Smith told reporters he ran an unofficial 4.72 in the 40 and believes he'll go in the third round, if not earlier.) (3-12-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000478708/article/marcus-mariota-not-the-only-one-with-a-pro-day-on-thursday
2015 NFL Draft: Athletic class of defensive linemen (Za'Darius Smith, Kentucky, 6-4, 274, 4.83, 3
--Work in progress: After starring in basketball at Greenville, Ala., High School, Smith first played football in 2010 and had to spend two years at East Mississippi Community College in Scooba, Miss., where he played well enough to be the nation's No. 1 defensive end prospect. He kept improving the last two years at Kentucky, finishing 2014 with 61 tackles, 4.5 sacks, 7.5 tackles for loss and two pass breakups. Smith is certainly willing, with a motor that is revved to red-line all the time, but despite excellent physical ability he is not a natural and has a lot to learn. Measuring up: At the combine, Smith showed why he switched from basketball, with a vertical jump of only 29 inches that was representative of his sub-par results across the board. His pro day is March 12. Notable quote: "I do think I can get up to 290 and I'll be able to hold that weight very good. Just being able to get up to 275 after playing at 260 last year, I feel comfortable at it." -- Smith at combine, where he said scouts think he needs to add more muscle. Frankly: Even considering he started football late, Smith is taking a long time to learn the game. He should be considered a project who needs time and tutoring before a team expects him to show a return on investment in the NFL.) (3-10-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/blog/rob-rang/25101900/nfl-draft-athletic-class-of-defensive-linemen
3 to watch at combine: DEs (A second Day 2 option: Za'Darius Smith, Kentucky. Another tall end with an NFL-ready body (6-foot-6, 263 pounds), Smith lacks some of the athleticism the Lions love in their other recent draft picks at defensive end -- Ezekiel Ansah, Devin Taylor and Larry Webster. Also probably better suited to play on the left side of the formation, his most noted characteristic is a non-stop motor. Having an opportunity to work with Detroit defensive line coaches Kris Kocurek and Jim Washburn could help Smith reach his ceiling, even if that's only as a rotational end.) (2-17-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/02/3_to_watch_at_combine_defensiv.html
Senior Bowl Review: Defense (Smith is another hands, length, counter moves edge player. He had a better week in practice during the Senior Bowl compared to East West Shrine week.) (1-30-15): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/51931/351/senior-bowl-review-defense
Buzz worthy and buzz kill players from Day 2 at the Senior Bowl (Smith was a buzz worthy player. Smith opened a few eyes last week with his impressive MVP performance at the East-West Shrine Game and he is certainly building upon that momentum with his play in Mobile. The 6-foot-4 5/8, 270-pound pass rusher has flashed the quickness, burst and athleticism that scouts covet in nickel edge defenders. Smith is not only capable of bending and bursting around the corner, but he is slippery enough to win with nifty inside maneuvers against overaggressive blockers. In addition, Smith displays a high-revving motor that will allow him to rack up garbage sacks on extra-effort plays off the corner. With Smith dominating his peers on the all-star circuit, the Kentucky standout's stock is poised to soar in pre-draft meetings in a few weeks.) (1-21-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000461678/article/buzzworthy-and-buzzkill-players-from-day-2-at-the-senior-bowl
2015 Senior Bowl Monday's North Practice Report (In the run scrimmage, Havenstein was pushed backward into the backfield by Kentucky defensive end Za'Darius Smith. Speaking of Smith, he had a quality week at the East-West Shrine, and he continued that in his first Senior Bowl practice. Along with burning Clemmings with a spin move, he used a bull rush and strong hands to shed Penn State offensive tackle Donovan Smith on an edge rush. Playing in the East-West game looks like an advantage for Smith, as he wasn't rusty, and he didn't get tired like some of the other Senior Bowl participants who have been off from practice for weeks.) (1-20-15): http://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2015practice2.php
10 Senior Bowl prospects for Detroit Lions fans to watch (The Lions like to draft big-bodied defensive ends to develop in the later rounds and Smith fits that mold. With George Johnson and Darryl Tapp set to hit free agency, and Jason Jones a potential cap casualty, Smith could be the latest addition to the redwood forest of edge rushers handed off to Kris Kocurek and Jim Washburn to develop.)(1-20-15): http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/01/10_senior_bowl_prospects_for_d.html
2015
Senior Bowl: North Defense Scouting Preview (While his teammate Bud
Dupree has received first-round buzz and declined his Senior Bowl
invite, Za’Darius Smith has an NFL future thanks to his composed,
controlled style as a backside edge player, keeping his hands and upper
body positioned very well. He sets up his edge rushes at a high level,
utilizing positioning, patience and hand placement to get around the
edge. His ability to hold the edge well is what could eventually lead
him to a situational starter role in the NFL, and he’ll look to make the
most of his Senior Bowl “call up” from the Shrine Game.)(1-18-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-senior-bowl-north-defense-scouting-preview.html
2015 NFL Draft: Smith, Chickillo, Shaw flash at East-West Shrine Game (Smith was the game's most disruptive defender, using his combination of burst off the snap and long arms to slip past offensive tackles and harass the quarterback. Smith doesn't possess the explosiveness as his former teammate and projected first round pick "Bud" Dupree, but he showed a quick first step and balance, a spin move and an effective bull rush in this game and forced an interception. For his efforts, he was named the Defensive Player of the Game.) (1-18-15): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24971103/nfl-draft-smith-chickillo-shaw-flash-at-east-west-shrine-game
Rules of Thumb From The Shrine Game (Kentucky DE Za’Darius Smith, a natural leader and savvy pass rusher who earned a call-up to the Senior Bowl. He’s a decent bet to be the first Shrine Game player drafted, perhaps as high as the late 3rd round.) (1-18-15): http://football.realgm.com/analysis/2587/Rules-Of-Thumb-From-The-Shrine-Game
2015 East-West Shrine Recap (The stars of the 90th East-West Shrine Game were Kentucky defensive end Za'Darius Smith and Miami defensive end Anthony Chickillo. Smith got his day started with a coverage sack working back toward the line of scrimmage. Shortly later, Smith beat the tackle to the inside to hit the quarterback as he threw for an incompletion on a third down. Smith was then able to hit Cody Fajardo as he threw to cause a severely underthrown ball that was intercepted by Florida Atlantic safety Damian Parms. Smith had a strong week of practice and finished it off by playing well in the game. He has a nice skill set to develop, but is still raw after playing only two seasons of big-time college football. As a mid-rounder, Smith could be a worthy project.) (1-17-15): http://walterfootball.com/eastwest2015recap.php
Smith defensive MVP in East-West Shrine Game (1-17-15): http://www.kentucky.com/2015/01/17/3647445/uks-smith-defensive-mvp-in-east.html
Norris: E-W Shrine Review ( EDGE Za’Darius Smith, Kentucky - Honestly, Smith did not do much to impress onlookers this week. He will not wow with athleticism, however, Smith will win with technique and power. Few use their hands as consistently on first contact and to generate momentum on counter moves. In this deep EDGE class, look from Smith to land on the third day unless he surprises at the Combine.) (1-15-15): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/51648/351/norris-e-w-shrine-review
2015 Shrine Game: Day Three East Practice Notes (University of Kentucky’s Za’Darius Smith certainly looks the part of the most high profile defensive lineman of the East unit. He also practiced the part during Wednesday’s session. He showed impressive gap control during gap control drills, and showed a variety of methods of getting after the quarterback in pass protection drills.) (1-15-15): http://optimumscouting.com/draft/2015-shrine-game-day-three-east-practice-notes.html
Jeremiah: Tre McBride leads standouts from Shrine Game Drills (Kentucky DE Za'Darius Smith: He was Kentucky's other end this season, playing opposite star Bud Dupree. But while Smith (6-5, 265) isn't as highly touted as Dupree, he still can play. Jeremiah touts his "explosiveness" off the snap, and there were a handful of times Wednesday when he embarrassed the tackle trying to block him with that quickness. One selling point with Smith, in a weird way, is his inexperience: He has played just five seasons of football (one in high school, two in junior college and two at Kentucky), and with his athleticism, he certainly has an upside once he polishes the rough edges. The question, of course, is whether those rough edges can be smoothed. Smith had 10.5 sacks, 13.5 tackles for loss and 119 tackles in his two seasons with the Wildcats.) (1-14-15): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000459028/article/jeremiah-tre-mcbride-leads-standouts-from-shrine-game-drills
2015 Shrine Game Wednesday's East Team Practice (Kentucky defensive end Za’Darius Smith had a good practice on Wednesday. He did well in the run play one-on-ones. Smith shed Miami guard Jonathan Feliciano for one victory. In the rematch, Smith stood up Feliciano and bull rushed him behind the line of scrimmage. Smith also did well in the pass rushing one-on-ones and the team scrimmage. He looks like he has solidified a day-three grade.) (1-14-15): http://walterfootball.com/eastwest2015practice5.php
2015 Shrine Game: Tuesday's East Team Practice (Miller (6-5, 290) and college teammate Za’Darius Smith both flash at times. They looked impressive at times with strength and athleticism, while looking completely lost on other plays. Smith has a better shot of making a 53-man roster as a backup. Smith (6-5, 265) has some athletic potential as a base end, but he needs more pass-rushing moves and overall improvement in his technique.) (1-13-15): http://walterfootball.com/eastwest2015practice3.php
2015 Shrine game: Top 15 prospects to watch (While his teammate Bud Dupree has received first-round buzz, Smith has an NFL future, too, thanks to his composed, controlled style as a backside edge player, keeping his hands and upper body positioned very well. He sets up his edge rushes at a high level, utilizing positioning, patience and hand placement to get around the edge. His ability to hold the edge well is what could eventually lead him to becoming a situational starter in the NFL, and he should be able to take advantage of the lackluster offensive tackles at the Shrine Game.)(1-12-15): http://www.sportingnews.com/nfl/story/2015-01-12/2015-shrine-game-nfl-prospects-mock-draft-tyeler-davison-kasen-williams-malcolm-brown
2015 Shrine Preview (The 2015 EDGE class is extremely, extremely deep. That means Kentucky’s Za’Darius Smith slipped through the cracks and landed in this all-star game. Smith is not an impressive athlete. At all. However, he is one of the best in terms of using his hands and length to work different angles, reset his momentum with a counter, and to win the balance advantage. He was closed off with another edge rusher a bit too much for my liking this year, but Smith flashed winning in the 5 and 3 alignments too.) (1-11-15): http://www.rotoworld.com/articles/cfb/51538/351/2015-east-west-shrine-preview?pg=2
2015 NFL Draft: Trio of NFL hopefuls help UK push No. 1 Miss St (Dupree's production, length and closing speed have scouts buzzing. Smith was the more consistent of the two, however, demonstrating not only strength to hold up at the point of attack but terrific effort in pursuit. Official statistics weren't available immediately after the game, but Smith was in on a lot of stops. Smith doesn't possess his teammates' explosive burst but he's a well-built 6-foot-5, 264 pounds with long arms and heavy hands to fight through blocks. His power and awareness helped him seal the edge and keep Prescott from running wild, as he'd often done in 2014.) (10-25-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24768136/nfl-draft-trio-of-nfl-hopefuls-help-uk-push-no-1-miss-st
Week 9 Prospect Preview (Dupree is the more explosive pass rush option, but Smith on the other side has NFL potential as well. Although his 2014 stats are mediocre (3 tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks), the tape shows an aggressive edge rusher with some burst and the motor needed to compete at a high level. Smith rarely loses sight of the ball with proper eye use to quickly locate and track, using feisty swat and swim moves to defeat blockers. He has only average speed and athleticism and needs to better control his momentum running the arc, but edge blockers have to respect his relentless effort on each snap. Smith doesn't have the same explosive gifts as Dupree, but there's a lot to like about his strengths rushing off the edge.) (10-23-14): http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24764097/nfl-draft-week-9-prospect-preview
Week 8 Risers and Sliders (Smith was a slider. Though he was credited with the only sack of the night for Kentucky, Smith’s performance against LSU will raise red flags in the scouting world. Smith was exploited all night not just by the Tigers highly rated left tackle La’el Collins but also any tight end or fullback he faced. Scouts have had concerns about Smith’s overall athleticism, a weakness exploited by LSU on Saturday.) (10-20-14): http://www.draftinsider.net/blog/?p=10099
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